The most accurate response regarding the changes in potential and kinetic energy during this process is:
The potential energy will stay the same as long as the book stays on the table. The kinetic energy increases when the book is shoved and then gradually decreases as it slides across the table and then comes to rest on the edge.
Here's the reasoning:
- Potential Energy (PE): The potential energy of the book remains constant while it is resting on the flat table because there are no changes in height; both its position and the gravitational force acting on it remain the same.
- Kinetic Energy (KE): When the person shoves the book, its kinetic energy increases due to the applied force. As the book slides across the table, it eventually slows down due to friction, which causes its kinetic energy to decrease until it comes to rest.
Therefore, during the entire process, the potential energy remains constant, while the kinetic energy changes.