Question

interpreting energy pie charts
click the \step\ button on the simulation to observe the energy at different points on the roller coaster ride. use the information from the pie chart in the simulation to complete the sentences.
kinetic energy is greatest at
potential energy is greatest at
kinetic energy decreases while potential energy increases between steps

Explanation:

Step1: Recall energy principles

Kinetic energy is related to speed and potential energy to height for a roller - coaster.

Step2: Analyze kinetic energy

Kinetic energy ($K = \frac{1}{2}mv^{2}$) is greatest at the lowest point of the roller - coaster ride as speed is maximum there.

Step3: Analyze potential energy

Potential energy ($U = mgh$) is greatest at the highest point of the roller - coaster ride as height $h$ is maximum there.

Step4: Analyze energy change

Kinetic energy decreases while potential energy increases when the roller - coaster moves from a lower point to a higher point.

Answer:

Kinetic energy is greatest at the lowest point of the roller - coaster ride.
Potential energy is greatest at the highest point of the roller - coaster ride.
Kinetic energy decreases while potential energy increases when moving from a lower step to a higher step.