To determine the kinetic energy of the book at this moment, we can use the relationship between mechanical energy, potential energy, and kinetic energy.
The total mechanical energy (E) of a system is the sum of its potential energy (PE) and kinetic energy (KE). The formula can be expressed as:
[tex]\[ E = PE + KE \][/tex]
We are given the following values:
- Potential energy (PE) = 15.4 J
- Mechanical energy (E) = 32.0 J
We need to find the kinetic energy (KE). Rewriting the formula to solve for KE, we get:
[tex]\[ KE = E - PE \][/tex]
Substitute the given values into the equation:
[tex]\[ KE = 32.0\, \text{J} - 15.4\, \text{J} \][/tex]
Now, perform the subtraction:
[tex]\[ KE = 16.6\, \text{J} \][/tex]
Therefore, the kinetic energy of the book at this point is:
[tex]\[ KE = 16.6\, \text{J} \][/tex]