Rebecca climbs the ladder of a large water slide, waits her turn at the top, and then slides down the slide into a pool. Which answer best describes the energy changes during her time on the slide

Answer 1

During Rebecca's time on the water slide, her energy changes can be described in terms of gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy.

1. Climbing the Ladder: As Rebecca climbs the ladder to the top of the slide, she is doing work against gravity, which increases her gravitational potential energy. The higher she climbs, the more potential energy she accumulates.

2. At the Top: When she is at the top and waiting her turn, her potential energy is at its maximum because of her height above the ground. At this point, her kinetic energy is minimal or zero since she is not moving.

3. Sliding Down: As she begins to slide down the slide, her gravitational potential energy decreases while her kinetic energy increases. The potential energy converts into kinetic energy, causing her to accelerate down the slide.

4. Entering the Pool: Upon reaching the bottom of the slide and entering the pool, her kinetic energy is at its maximum just before splashing into the water. After entering the pool, some kinetic energy is converted into other forms of energy, such as sound energy (splashing) and thermal energy due to water resistance.

In summary, the energy changes can be described as follows: Rebecca loses gravitational potential energy while gaining kinetic energy as she slides down the slide, and upon entering the pool, her kinetic energy is transformed into other forms of energy.