What happens to gravitational potential energy as a roller coaster moves down hill?

Explanation:

The formula for gravitational potential energy is:

$$PE = mgh$$

where:

- \(PE\) is the potential energy in joules (J)

- \(m\) is the mass of the object in kilograms (kg)

- \(g\) is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²)

- \(h\) is the height of the object above a reference point in meters (m)

As a roller coaster moves down a hill, its height above the reference point decreases. Therefore, its gravitational potential energy decreases as well. This energy is converted into kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion. The roller coaster speeds up as it moves down the hill.