Question

As a ball falls freely toward the ground, its total
mechanical energy
(1) decreases
(2) increases
(3) remains the same

Answer 1

As a ball falls freely toward the ground, its total mechanical energy "remains the same" but it should be noted that its potential energy is decreases at this time. 

Answer 2

Answer:

(3) remains the same

Explanation:

There is no loss or gain in mechanical energy, only a transformation of gravitational potential energy to kinetic energy as the ball falls toward the ground.