Manipal MET2011PhysicsWork, Power and Energy
In which case does the potential energy decrease?
Options
- AOn compressing a spring
- BOn stretching a spring
- COn moving a body against gravitational force
- DOn the rising of an air bubble in water
Correct answer
D. On the rising of an air bubble in water
Step-by-step solution
When an air bubble rises in water, it moves upward due to the buoyant force. As it rises, its gravitational potential energy might increase slightly, but the total potential energy (gravitational + potential energy from pressure) decreases because the bubble moves from a high-pressure region (deeper in water) to a lower-pressure region (near the surface).