Final answer:
The energy of the skateboarder on the bottom of the ramp is primarily kinetic energy (KE), while in the air performing a trick, it is primarily potential energy (PE). The total energy (KE + PE) is conserved in both situations.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the skateboarder is on the bottom of the ramp, their energy is primarily in the form of kinetic energy (KE) because they are moving. KE is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. In this case, the skateboarder has gravitational potential energy (PE) at the top of the ramp, which is converted into KE as they slide down the ramp.
When the skateboarder is in the air performing a trick, their energy is primarily in the form of potential energy (PE) because they are at a higher height. PE is the energy an object possesses due to its position or condition. As the skateboarder goes higher in the air, their PE increases, and when they come back down, it is converted into KE.
Overall, the total energy (the sum of KE and PE) is conserved in both situations, but the distribution of energy between KE and PE varies depending on the skateboarder's position.