Question

a book is falling from the top shelf of a bookcase. which statement correctly describes the change in the energy of the book? the potential energy and kinetic energy remain the same. the potential energy decreases as kinetic energy increases. the kinetic energy decreases as potential energy increases. the kinetic energy remains at zero, but potential energy increases.

Explanation:

As the book falls, its height above the ground decreases, reducing gravitational - potential energy. At the same time, its speed increases, increasing kinetic energy. According to the conservation of mechanical energy (neglecting air - resistance), the total mechanical energy (sum of potential and kinetic energy) remains constant. So, potential energy is converted into kinetic energy.

Answer:

The potential energy decreases as kinetic energy increases.