Correct Option
The correct option isIts potential energy decreases and kinetic energy increases.
Explanation
The phenomenon described is governed by the Law of Conservation of Mechanical Energy. For an object falling freely under the influence of gravity (ignoring air resistance), the total mechanical energy-defined as the sum of gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy-remains constant throughout the motion.
Detailed Analysis
- Potential Energy: Gravitational potential energy is defined by the formula PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height above the reference point (ground). As an object falls freely, its height (h) decreases. Therefore, its potential energy decreases.
- Kinetic Energy: Kinetic energy is defined by the formula KE = ½mv², where v is velocity. As the object falls, it accelerates due to gravity, causing its velocity to increase continuously. Therefore, its kinetic energy increases.
- Energy Transformation: During the fall, the potential energy lost is directly converted into kinetic energy. While the individual values of potential and kinetic energy change, their sum remains constant at any point in the path.
Key Takeaway: In a free-fall scenario, energy is not created or destroyed but transformed; specifically, gravitational potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as the object descends.