D. As speed increases, kinetic energy increases exponentially. The correct statement is D.
As speed increases, kinetic energy increases exponentially. The relationship between kinetic energy (KE) and speed is given by the formula
,
where m is the mass and v is the speed.
As speed (v) increases, the square of speed (
) has an exponential impact on kinetic energy.
Therefore, as speed increases, kinetic energy increases exponentially.
This relationship is evident in the graph, reflecting the non-linear and accelerating nature of kinetic energy with respect to speed.