How does potential energy transform into kinetic energy in a free-falling object?

Potential energy transforms into kinetic energy in a free-falling object due to the force of gravity.

When an object is lifted to a certain height, it gains potential energy due to the work done against gravity. This potential energy is stored in the object and can be converted into kinetic energy when the object is released and allowed to fall freely. As the object falls, the potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion.

The conversion of potential energy to kinetic energy is governed by the law of conservation of energy, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. As the object falls, the potential energy decreases while the kinetic energy increases, and the total energy remains constant.

The rate at which potential energy is converted to kinetic energy depends on the mass of the object and the height from which it is dropped. Heavier objects and higher drops will result in greater kinetic energy. The speed at which the object falls also increases as the potential energy is converted to kinetic energy, until it reaches its maximum velocity, known as terminal velocity.

In conclusion, potential energy is transformed into kinetic energy in a free-falling object due to the force of gravity, and this conversion is governed by the law of conservation of energy. The rate of conversion depends on the mass and height of the object, and the speed of the object increases until it reaches terminal velocity.