Question

The potential energy of a freely falling object decreases progressively. Does this violate the
law of conservation of energy? Why?​

Answer 1

Answer:

A decrease in the potential energy is equal to an increase in the kinetic energy of the body. ... During the process, the total mechanical energy of the body remains conserved. Therefore, the law of conservation of energy is not violated.

Explanation:

We can also prove the conservation of mechanical energy of a freely falling body by the work-energy theorem, which states that change in kinetic energy of a body is equal to work done on it. i.e. W=ΔK. And ΔE=ΔK+ΔU. Hence the mechanical energy of the body is conserved.

An object has potential energy because of its position. For example, leaves on trees have potential energy because they could fall. They fall because of the pull of gravity. Potential energy can be transferred into motion.