Question

question 8 points 1
in the context of a roller coaster, what happens to the potential energy as the car slides down the track?

it increases

it remains constant

it decreases

it disappears

Explanation:

Potential energy (specifically gravitational potential energy) is given by the formula $PE = mgh$, where $m$ is mass, $g$ is acceleration due to gravity, and $h$ is height. As the roller - coaster car slides down the track, its height ($h$) decreases. Since $m$ and $g$ remain constant (assuming no significant changes in mass and near - surface gravity), the potential energy $PE$ will decrease. Energy is conserved, so it is converted into kinetic energy, not disappearing.

Answer:

C. It decreases