Question

As the bicyclist rides from right to left, at which of the three points, if any, is the bicyclist's potential energy increasing?

(1 point)

The potential energy is increasing at point B because the bicyclist is highest there.

The potential energy is increasing at point C because the bicyclist is increasing in elevation at that point.

The potential energy is always decreasing because the bicyclist continues to move forward

The potential energy is increasing at point A because the bicyclist is moving fastest at that point

Answer 1

To determine at which point the bicyclist's potential energy is increasing, we need to consider the elevation of the bicyclist at each point:

1. If the bicyclist is moving upward in elevation, then the potential energy is increasing.
2. If the bicyclist is moving downward, then the potential energy is decreasing.
3. The speed of the bicyclist is related to kinetic energy rather than potential energy.

Given these points, the most accurate statement from the options provided is:

**The potential energy is increasing at point C because the bicyclist is increasing in elevation at that point.**

This option explicitly mentions an increase in elevation, which directly correlates with an increase in potential energy.