To analyze the changes in kinetic and potential energy at each labeled point on the rollercoaster, we can describe the energy transformations as follows:
-
Top of the Hill:
- At this point, the potential energy is at its maximum because the rollercoaster is at its highest elevation. The kinetic energy is at its minimum (which could be low but not zero) as the coaster is about to start descending. As the coaster begins to descend, potential energy will convert into kinetic energy.
-
Middle of the Descent:
- In this position, the potential energy decreases as the coaster moves down from the top of the hill. Simultaneously, the kinetic energy increases as the coaster gains speed due to gravitational acceleration. Here, kinetic energy is at a moderate level, having increased from the top of the hill.
-
Bottom of the Hill:
- At the bottom of the hill, the potential energy is at its minimum since this is the lowest point of the ride. The kinetic energy, on the other hand, reaches its maximum due to the coaster's highest speed at this point. This is a result of the conversion of potential energy into kinetic energy during the descent.
-
Smaller Hill:
- As the coaster climbs the smaller hill, potential energy begins to increase again, albeit not to the levels of the first hill. The kinetic energy decreases as the coaster slows down while climbing. At the peak of the smaller hill, the potential energy will be higher again but still lower than at the top of the first hill while the kinetic energy is at its minimum once more.
In summary, the energy changes follow a pattern of conversion between potential and kinetic energy based on the height and speed of the rollercoaster at various points along the track.