Question

Two bar magnets are held in place with their north poles facing each other. Both magnets are released at the same time. Which statement describing changes to the energy of the system is correct? (1 point)
Potential energy decreases, and kinetic and thermal energy increase.
Potential energy increases, and kinetic and thermal energy decrease.
Potential energy increases, kinetic energy decreases, and thermal energy increases.
Potential energy decreases, kinetic energy increases, and thermal energy decreases.

Answer 1

Potential energy decreases, and kinetic and thermal energy increase.

Reason: With like poles facing, the magnets are in a high (repulsive) potential-energy configuration. When released they move apart, so magnetic potential energy is converted into kinetic energy and some is dissipated as thermal (friction, air resistance, eddy currents).