Question

How do the potential energy and the kinetic energy change as the skater moves from the top of the U-shaped ramp to the bottom?

Answer 1

The potential energy and kinetic energy are always in flux. At the top of the hill, potential energy is at its highest and kinetic energy is at its lowest because the skateboarder stops for just a moment before being pulled down the hill by the force of gravity. At the bottom of the hill, kinetic energy is the highest because the skateboarder reaches maximum speed.

Step-by-step explanation:

Answer 2

In the general sense of energy, there are only two types: the potential energy and the kinetic energy. All other types of energy like heat, electricity, mechanical, chemical, etc, are all under these two classification.

The potential energy is characterized as the energy of the object at a certain height. Its equation is: PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the gravity and h is the height. Kinetic energy is the energy of the object in motion. The equation is: KE = 1/2mv², where v is the velocity.

Therefore, at the top of the U-shaped ramp, KE=0 and PE is at its maximum. As it moves down the ramp, PE decreases and KE increases. When it reaches to a stop, KE=0 and PE=0.