Final answer:
The pattern observed in the position data of a cart after the fan is turned off is initially positive, steadily decreasing, and becoming negative at the end. Hence the correct answer is option C
Step-by-step explanation:
The pattern observed in the position data of a cart after the fan is turned off is (C) Initially positive, steadily decreasing, becoming negative at the end.
When the fan is turned off, the cart continues to move in the same direction as before but gradually slows down due to friction and air resistance. Eventually, it comes to a stop and starts moving in the opposite direction. This change in direction is indicated by the negative position values.
For example, if the cart was initially moving to the right, its position data might show positive values at the beginning, gradually decreasing towards zero, and then becoming negative as it starts moving to the left.