A skydiver jumps out of a plane and begins to accelerate. His speed increases to 20 m/s, then 30 m/s. His acceleration slows until he reaches a constant speed of 50 m/s. Which statement accurately describes his kinetic energy while falling?(1 point)

Question

Responses

His kinetic energy was positive at first, but it decreased to zero when he stopped accelerating.
His kinetic energy was positive at first, but it decreased to zero when he stopped accelerating.

His kinetic energy would remain the same for the whole fall as long as he lost no mass.
His kinetic energy would remain the same for the whole fall as long as he lost no mass.

His kinetic energy increased while his speed increases, then it became constant.
His kinetic energy increased while his speed increases, then it became constant.

His kinetic energy increased quickly at first, then it increased at a constant rate.

Answer 1

The correct statement that accurately describes the skydiver's kinetic energy while falling is:

His kinetic energy increased while his speed increases, then it became constant.

As the skydiver accelerates and his speed increases from 20 m/s to 30 m/s and eventually 50 m/s, his kinetic energy—calculated using the formula \( KE = \frac{1}{2} mv^2 \) (where \( m \) is mass and \( v \) is velocity)—also increases. Once he reaches a constant speed of 50 m/s, his kinetic energy remains constant as well, assuming mass does not change.