Is It Possible for a System to Have Negative Potential

question 51

Multiple Choice

Is it possible for a system to have negative potential energy?

• A) Yes, as long as the kinetic energy is positive.
• B) Yes, as long as the total energy is positive.
• C) Yes, since the choice of the zero of potential energy is arbitrary.
• D) No, because the kinetic energy of a system must equal its potential energy.
• E) No, because this would have no physical meaning.

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Definitions:

Increasing Opportunity Cost

A principle that states as more resources are dedicated to an activity, the cost of producing an additional unit increases.

Bowed Inward

Describes a concave shape of an economic curve, such as the production possibility frontier, indicating increasing opportunity costs.

Bowed Out

A term used to describe a situation where a party withdraws from an agreement, competition, or situation.

Adaptable

The ability to adjust or modify oneself or processes to suit different conditions or environments.