A helium balloon rises due to the buoyant force acting on it, as helium is less dense than air. This buoyancy allows the balloon to float in the atmosphere, gaining kinetic energy as it ascends. As the balloon moves upward in the gravitational field, it also gains gravitational potential energy. The relationship between mass, velocity, and kinetic energy is defined by the equation KE = 1/2 mv². The discussion highlights the interplay between buoyancy and gravitational forces in the balloon's ascent.