Question

This image of a roller coaster is designed to show important information about potential and kinetic energy. One of these labeled pieces of information is incorrect. Which information is wrong, and why? (1 point) Responses The roller coaster would only have kinetic energy at the point labeled “gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy.” The roller coaster would only have kinetic energy at the point labeled “gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy.” The spot marked “maximum gravitational potential energy” should be on the lowest point of the roller coaster, at the far left side on the bottom. The spot marked “maximum gravitational potential energy” should be on the lowest point of the roller coaster, at the far left side on the bottom. The roller coaster would only have potential energy at the point labeled “gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy.” The roller coaster would only have potential energy at the point labeled “gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy.” The spot with the “maximum kinetic energy” should be on the lowest point of the roller coaster, at the far left side on the bottom.

Answer 1

The incorrect piece of information is: "The roller coaster would only have kinetic energy at the point labeled 'gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy.'"

At that labeled point, the roller coaster possesses both gravitational potential energy (due to its height) and kinetic energy (due to its motion). Therefore, it cannot be correct to state that it would only have kinetic energy at a point that indicates both types of energy are present.

In summary, energy in a roller coaster system is continuously converted between kinetic and potential energy as it moves along the track, and at any point labeled as having both types of energy, both forms are indeed present, not just kinetic.