Which of the following is an example of kinetic energy being converted to potential energy?

• A. A spring being compressed
• B. A car accelerating on a flat road
• C. A pendulum reaching its highest point
• D. A ball rolling down a hill

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concepts of kinetic and potential energy. Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, while potential energy is the energy stored due to an object's position or configuration.
2. Identify the scenario where kinetic energy is converted to potential energy. This occurs when an object in motion comes to a stop at a higher position, storing energy due to its elevated position.
3. Consider the example of a pendulum. As the pendulum swings upwards, its speed decreases, converting kinetic energy into potential energy until it reaches its highest point.
4. At the highest point of the pendulum's swing, all the kinetic energy has been converted into potential energy, as the pendulum is momentarily at rest before swinging back down.
5. Compare this with other options: A spring being compressed involves potential energy being stored, a car accelerating involves kinetic energy increasing, and a ball rolling down a hill involves potential energy converting to kinetic energy.