Which of the following lists correctly identifies the three main types of mechanical energy?

• A. Electrical energy, magnetic energy, and kinetic energy
• B. $\text{Kinetic energy}$, $\text{potential energy}$, and $\text{elastic energy}$
• C. Gravitational energy, nuclear energy, and sound energy
• D. Thermal energy, kinetic energy, and chemical energy

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that mechanical energy is the sum of kinetic energy and potential energy associated with the motion and position of an object.
2. Step 2: Recall that kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion, given by the formula \(E_k = \frac{1}{2} m v^2\), where \(m\) is mass and \(v\) is velocity.
3. Step 3: Recognize that potential energy is the energy stored due to an object's position or configuration, such as gravitational potential energy \(E_p = m g h\), where \(m\) is mass, \(g\) is acceleration due to gravity, and \(h\) is height.
4. Step 4: Note that elastic energy is a form of potential energy stored in objects that can be stretched or compressed, like springs, and is given by \(E_e = \frac{1}{2} k x^2\), where \(k\) is the spring constant and \(x\) is the displacement.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the three main types of mechanical energy are kinetic energy, potential energy (including gravitational), and elastic energy, distinguishing them from other forms like electrical, nuclear, or thermal energy.