Which one of the following energy conversions occurs in a ball as it bounces upward after being dropped?

When a ball is dropped and subsequently bounces upward, it undergoes various energy transformations throughout its motion. At the moment the ball strikes the ground, it possesses maximum kinetic energy due to its speed. As it begins to bounce upward, this kinetic energy is converted into gravitational potential energy.

Gravitational potential energy is defined as the energy an object possesses due to its position relative to a reference point, typically the ground. As the ball rises, it slows down until it reaches its highest point, where all the kinetic energy from its drop has been converted into gravitational potential energy. This process is characterized by the ball losing speed while gaining height.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the energy transformations occurring in this scenario. For instance, while gravitational potential energy converting to kinetic energy is correct for a ball falling, it describes the initial motion rather than the bounce upward. Similarly, energy transformations involving thermal energy or heat are not relevant here, as the main interaction is between kinetic and gravitational potential energies during the bounce.

Thus, the conversion from kinetic energy to gravitational potential energy accurately depicts the ball's behavior as it rises after bouncing, highlighting the changes in energy state as it moves against the force of gravity.