potential and kinetic energy select the point where the ball has the least potential energy.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall potential energy formula

The gravitational potential energy formula is $U = mgh$, where $m$ is mass, $g$ is gravitational - acceleration, and $h$ is height. For a given object ($m$ is constant) and a fixed location ($g$ is constant), potential energy depends on height $h$.

Step2: Analyze the heights of points

Point A is at the highest position among A, B, C, and D. Point C is at the lowest position. Since potential energy is directly proportional to height, the lower the height, the less the potential energy.

Answer:

C