Let's consider a scenario of a roller coaster ride. As the roller coaster at the top begins to descend, it loses height, which means its potential energy decreases and kinetic energy starts increasing and reaches its maximum value.By using the above scenario, which statement best compares potential and kinetic energy?
Answer
A
Objects always have more potential energy than kinetic energy.
B
Kinetic energy increases and potential energy decreases when the velocity of an object increases.
C
Only potential energy decreases when an object’s height increases.
D
Objects always have more kinetic energy than potential energy.
Explanation
As the coaster descends, its height decreases, so its gravitational potential energy decreases. At the same time, it speeds up, so its kinetic energy increases. This matches choice B: kinetic energy increases and potential energy decreases as the coaster’s velocity increases during its descent. The other choices incorrectly claim that one type of energy is always greater or describe the opposite change in height.
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