During free fall of an object :
[amp_mcq option1=”its potential energy increases and its kinetic energy decreases.” option2=”its potential energy decreases and its kinetic energy increases.” option3=”both its potential energy and kinetic energy increase.” option4=”both its potential energy and kinetic energy decrease.” correct=”option2″]
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2010
– Potential energy (PE) due to gravity is given by mgh, where m is mass, g is acceleration due to gravity, and h is height. As an object falls, its height (h) decreases, so its potential energy decreases.
– Kinetic energy (KE) is given by 0.5mv², where m is mass and v is velocity. As an object falls under gravity, its speed (v) increases (due to acceleration ‘g’), so its kinetic energy increases.
– In ideal free fall (neglecting air resistance), the total mechanical energy (PE + KE) is conserved. The decrease in potential energy is equal to the increase in kinetic energy.