Mechanical energy is the sum of kinetic and potential energy in an object related to its motion and position. In this exercise, we are mainly concerned with kinetic energy.
Kinetic energy is the energy possessed due to motion and can be calculated using the formula: \[ E_k = \frac{1}{2}mv^2 \]
- \( m \) is mass
- \( v \) is velocity.
In our scenario with the person running, we focus entirely on kinetic energy to achieve the equivalent of the light bulb's energy. The more massive or faster an object, the greater its kinetic energy.
Understanding mechanical energy helps us appreciate how energy is harnessed and exerted, whether in machinery or living organisms.