4. Use the image below to answer the following question.
An image shows two skydivers in free fall. One is upright with arms and legs extended. The second is upside down.
Which kind of energy transformation occurs during skydiving? (1 point)
mechanical to gravitational
gravitational to kinetic
kinetic to potential
mechanical to potential
To answer this question, we need to understand the different types of energy and how they relate to skydiving.
First, let's define the four types of energy mentioned in the question:
1. Mechanical energy: This is the sum of both kinetic and potential energy. It represents the energy possessed by an object or system due to its motion or position.
2. Gravitational energy: This is the potential energy possessed by an object due to its height or position in a gravitational field. The higher an object is, the greater its gravitational potential energy.
3. Kinetic energy: This is the energy possessed by a moving object. It depends on the object's mass and velocity. The faster an object moves or the heavier it is, the greater its kinetic energy.
4. Potential energy: This is the energy possessed by an object due to its position or condition. In the case of skydiving, potential energy is usually associated with the height of the diver.
Now, let's analyze the image of the skydivers. One skydiver is depicted as upright with arms and legs extended, while the second skydiver is shown upside down.
During a skydive, the skydivers experience a transformation of energy. Initially, when they are at a higher altitude, they possess potential energy due to their height. As they begin to fall, this potential energy is gradually converted into kinetic energy as they gain speed.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is: gravitational to kinetic. The skydivers start with gravitational potential energy, which is transformed into kinetic energy as they fall.