A student observes a roller coaster at locations A, B, C, and D on the track.

Question

Which statement is true according to the bar graph?

(1 point)
Responses

Both potential and kinetic energy change, but total energy does not change.
Both potential and kinetic energy change, but total energy does not change.

The roller coaster destroys potential energy.
The roller coaster destroys potential energy.

The roller coaster creates kinetic energy.
The roller coaster creates kinetic energy.

The roller coaster creates potential energy, but kinetic energy does not change.

Answer 1

The correct statement based on the principles of energy conservation in a roller coaster scenario is:

Both potential and kinetic energy change, but total energy does not change.

In a roller coaster, as it moves along the track, the potential energy (due to height) and kinetic energy (due to motion) will change at different points (A, B, C, D), but the total mechanical energy (the sum of potential and kinetic energy) remains constant if we neglect friction and air resistance.