b. As the ball is falling, what is happening to its energy? (1 point)
O potential energy stays the same as it falls
• kinetic energy converts to potential energy as it falls
• potential energy converts to kinetic energy as it falls
• kinetic energy stays the same as it falls
• potential energy converts to kinetic energy as it falls
The correct answer is: • potential energy converts to kinetic energy as it falls
To determine what is happening to the energy of the falling ball, we need to understand the concept of potential and kinetic energy.
1. Potential energy: This is the energy that an object possesses due to its position or condition. In the case of the falling ball, potential energy is associated with its height above the ground.
2. Kinetic energy: This is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion. For the falling ball, its kinetic energy is related to its speed and mass.
As the ball falls, its height decreases, which means its potential energy is decreasing. At the same time, its speed and motion increase, which indicates an increase in kinetic energy.
Therefore, the correct answer is: potential energy converts to kinetic energy as it falls.