Question

Use the following diagram to answer the question. Neglect the affect of resistance forces.

The object's kinetic energy at point C is less than its kinetic energy at point ____.

• A. A only
• B. A, D, and E
• C. B only
• D. D and E

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

B only

Since the total mechanical energy is conserved, kinetic energy (and thus, speed) will be greatest when the potential energy is smallest. Point B is the only point that is lower than point C. The reasoning would follow that point B is the point with the smallest PE, the greatest KE, and the greatest speed. Therefore, the object will have less kinetic energy at point C than at point B (only).