Water stored in a dam possesses

Options

A. no energy
B. electrical energy
C. kinetic energy
D. potential energy

Explanation

To answer the question "Water stored in a dam possesses...", we can break it down step by step:

### Step 1: Understanding the Concept of Potential Energy
- Water stored in a dam is at a certain height above the ground. Due to its position, it possesses potential energy. This is because potential energy is defined as the energy an object has due to its position or configuration.

### Step 2: Identifying the Type of Energy
- The potential energy of the water in the dam is gravitational potential energy. This is calculated using the formula:
\[ PE = mgh \]
where \(PE\) is potential energy, \(m\) is the mass of the water, \(g\) is the acceleration due to gravity, and \(h\) is the height of the water above a reference point.

### Step 3: Energy Transformation
- When the water is released from the dam and allowed to flow, the potential energy begins to convert into kinetic energy. Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, and it can be calculated using the formula:
\[ KE = \frac{1}{2} mv^2 \]
where \(KE\) is kinetic energy, \(m\) is the mass of the water, and \(v\) is the velocity of the water.

### Step 4: Law of Conservation of Energy
- According to the law of conservation of energy, energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only change forms. Therefore, as the water flows down from the dam, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases.

### Conclusion
- In summary, water stored in a dam possesses potential energy due to its height. When released, this potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as the water flows.