Which type of energy is primarily possessed by a ball as it falls through the air?

• A. $\text{Kinetic energy}$
• B. $\text{Nuclear energy}$
• C. $\text{Elastic potential energy}$
• D. $\text{Chemical energy}$

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the different types of energy mentioned: Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, Nuclear energy is stored in the nucleus of atoms, Elastic potential energy is stored in stretched or compressed objects, and Chemical energy is stored in chemical bonds.
2. Recognize that as the ball falls through the air, it is moving, so it possesses energy related to its motion.
3. Recall the formula for kinetic energy: \(E_k = \frac{1}{2} m v^2\), where \(m\) is the mass of the ball and \(v\) is its velocity.
4. Since the ball is falling and gaining speed, its velocity increases, which means its kinetic energy increases.
5. Conclude that the primary type of energy the ball possesses while falling is kinetic energy, because it is moving through the air.