Question

Let's consider a scenario of a roller coaster ride. As the roller coaster at the top begins to descend, it loses height, which means its potential energy decreases and kinetic energy starts increasing and reaches its maximum value.

By using the above scenario, which statement best compares potential and kinetic energy?

Objects always have more potential energy than kinetic energy.
Kinetic energy increases and potential energy decreases when the velocity of an object increases.
Only potential energy decreases when an object’s height increases.
Objects always have more kinetic energy than potential energy.

Answer 1

"Kinetic energy increases and potential energy decreases when the velocity of an object increases."

Explanation: on the descending roller coaster gravitational potential energy (depends on height) is converted into kinetic energy (depends on speed). As the coaster loses height, PE falls and KE rises (total mechanical energy conserved if we ignore friction).