Energy Conservation of Falling Rock · PhysicsBowl 2024 #4
Physics · mechanics
Problem
A rock is dropped from a cliff in a canyon. Neglecting air resistance, as it falls, which of the following statements about its energy is true, according to the law of conservation of energy?
a. The total mechanical energy of the rock increases.
b. The total mechanical energy of the rock remains constant.
c. The kinetic energy of the rock decreases, but the potential energy remains constant.
d. The potential energy of the rock decreases, but the kinetic energy remains constant.
e. The kinetic energy of the rock increases, but the potential energy remains constant.