A comet speeds up as it approaches the Sun. Which statement about its kinetic energy is correct?

Question

Responses

The comet’s kinetic energy decreases.

The comet’s kinetic energy increases.

The comet has no kinetic energy because it is in outer space.

The comet’s kinetic energy stays the same.

Answer 1

The correct statement is: The comet’s kinetic energy increases.

As the comet approaches the Sun, it is drawn in by the Sun's gravitational pull, which causes it to accelerate. Since kinetic energy is directly related to an object's speed, the comet's kinetic energy increases as it speeds up.