Step 1: Apply the Projectile Range Formula
The range \( R \) of a projectile launched at an angle \( \theta \) with initial speed \( u \) is given by:
\[
R = \frac{u^2 \sin 2\theta}{g}.
\]
Given \( R = 8 \) m, \( \theta = 45^\circ \), and \( g = 9.8 \, \text{m/s}^2 \), substitute these values:
\[
8 = \frac{u^2 \sin 90^\circ}{9.8}.
\]
Since \( \sin 90^\circ = 1 \), this simplifies to:
\[
u^2 = 8 \times 9.8 = 78.4.
\]
Step 2: Calculate the Kinetic Energy
The kinetic energy of the projectile is given by:
\[
KE = \frac{1}{2} m u^2.
\]
Substituting mass \( m = 50 \, \text{kg} \) and \( u^2 = 78.4 \):
\[
KE = \frac{1}{2} \times 50 \times 78.4 = 25 \times 78.4 = 1960 \text{ J}.
\]
Final Answer:
Hence, the correct answer is option (4):
\[
\boxed{1960 \text{ J}}.
\]