What is an example of potential energy in the context of a roller coaster?

Potential energy refers to the stored energy that an object possesses due to its position or state. In the context of a roller coaster, this energy is particularly relevant when considering height and the gravitational forces acting upon the structure.

Waiting at the top of the stairs is a prime example of potential energy. At this height, an object (or a person) has gravitational potential energy due to the gravitational force acting on it; the higher the position, the greater the potential energy. When the roller coaster is at the top of a hill, it has maximum potential energy. This energy can be converted into kinetic energy as the roller coaster descends, accelerating downwards.

The other scenarios presented do not exemplify potential energy as clearly. Riding down the first hill represents kinetic energy as the coaster is in motion. Climbing into the roller coaster does not inherently involve height that contributes to potential energy—it's a preparatory action rather than a state affected by gravitational forces. Strapping into the seatbelt is merely a safety action and does not contribute to potential energy in the context of height or position. Thus, the scenario of waiting at the top of the stairs effectively illustrates the principle of potential energy due to its elevation.