Which of the following are examples of kinetic energy changing into potential energy? (A) A pine tree branch is not moved by the wind. (B) A television is turned on. (C) A boy climbs to the top of a slide and sits down. (D) A baseball sitting on a stand.

When the boy climbs to the top of the slide, he transforms kinetic energy (from his climbing) into potential energy as he gains height. This stored energy is at its peak when he reaches the top, ready to convert back into kinetic energy when he slides down. In the world of roller coasters, this transformation is critical! As the coaster climbs to the highest point, it trades its kinetic energy for potential energy. Then, when it drops, all that stored energy gets unleashed, leading to the thrilling rush of speed. Science is really all around us in these fun examples!