Answer: Increases.
- A Decreases
- B Stays same
- C Increases
- D First increases then decreases
Correct answer: C. Increases
Explanation: As the body falls, it speeds up. Since KE = (1/2)mv<sup>2</sup>, KE increases as speed increases.
As a pendulum swings, total mechanical energy (KE+PE) stays constant: at the highest points A and C, all energy is potential (zero speed); at the lowest point B, all of that energy has converted into kinetic energy (maximum speed).
Concept context
Work-energy theorem, potential energy, conservation of energy, collisions.