To determine at which position the kinetic energy of the ice cube is greatest, we need to consider the relationship between gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy. As the ice cube slides down the side of the bowl, it loses gravitational potential energy (due to a decrease in height) and converts that energy into kinetic energy (which increases its speed).
- At Position II, the ice cube is at a higher point, so its kinetic energy is relatively lower.
- At Position III, it is still descending, and the kinetic energy increases.
- At Position IV, the cube continues to descend and gains more speed, leading to an increase in kinetic energy.
- At Position V, the ice cube is at the lowest point in the bowl, where its gravitational potential energy is at its minimum and kinetic energy maximizes because it has converted most of its potential energy into kinetic energy.
Thus, the kinetic energy of the ice cube is the greatest at Position V.
The answer is: D. V.