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BeauThe gravitational potential energy of a contracting interstellar cloud increases as the cloud collapses inward due to gravity. This potential energy is converted into other forms of energy, such as kinetic energy and thermal energy, as the cloud contracts and heats up, eventually leading to the formation of a star.
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What is the source of energy as a star evolves from an interstellar cloud to the protostar stage?
The main source of energy during this stage is gravitational potential energy, as gas in the interstellar cloud collapses under gravity to form a protostar. The energy released from this gravitational collapse heats up the material and initiates the process of star formation.
Is gravitational energy renewable?
It is renewable because you can always raise an object or raise yourself and gain gravitational potential energy. You cannot run out of gravitational potential energy and even now you have some of the the energy because gravity is always pulling you. It is just a matter of how much gravitational potential energy you have. Go on the top Mt. Everest and you will have more gravitational potential energy than most of the people in the world.
What two factors influence the gravitational potential energy of an object?
The two factors that influence the gravitational potential energy of an object are its height above the reference point and its mass. As an object is raised to a higher altitude, its potential energy increases since it has the capacity to do more work when released. Additionally, the greater the mass of the object, the more potential energy it has due to its gravitational interaction with Earth.
Does the sun have either kinetic or potential energy?
The sun primarily has potential energy due to the gravitational forces that hold it together. This potential energy is released as heat and light energy through nuclear fusion reactions occurring in its core.
What type of energy is stored up?
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