In the context of the scenario described, the skateboarder has the greatest potential energy at point A because potential energy is defined as the energy stored in an object due to its position relative to other objects, its condition, or its state.
At point A, which is the highest point on the ramp, the skateboarder has the maximum height compared to other points on the ramp. The potential energy (PE) of an object can be calculated using the formula:
\[ PE = mgh \]
where:
- \( m \) is the mass of the skateboarder,
- \( g \) is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.81 m/s²),
- \( h \) is the height above the ground.
Since point A represents the highest vertical position of the skateboarder, the height \( h \) is at its maximum there. Consequently, since the mass \( m \) and gravity \( g \) remain constant, the potential energy is also at its maximum at this point.
As the skateboarder descends the ramp from point A to lower points (like point B or point C), the height decreases, which in turn decreases the potential energy. This energy is then transformed into kinetic energy as the skateboarder accelerates down the ramp, demonstrating the conservation of mechanical energy (where total energy remains constant if we ignore friction and air resistance).
In summary, the skateboarder has the greatest potential energy at point A due to its maximum height, making it the point where gravitational potential energy is highest.