Gravitational Potential Energy Physics Example 1

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Example 1

easy
What is the gravitational potential energy of a 4 kg4 \text{ kg} book on a shelf 2.5 m2.5 \text{ m} above the floor? Use g=9.8 m/s2g = 9.8 \text{ m/s}^2.

Solution

  1. 1
    Use the gravitational potential energy formula: PE=mghPE = mgh.
  2. 2
    Substitute the values: PE=4×9.8×2.5PE = 4 \times 9.8 \times 2.5.
  3. 3
    PE=98 JPE = 98 \text{ J}

Answer

PE=98 JPE = 98 \text{ J}
Gravitational potential energy depends on mass, gravitational acceleration, and height above a reference point. It represents stored energy due to an object's position in a gravitational field.

About Gravitational Potential Energy

Energy stored in an object due to its height above a reference point in a gravitational field: PE=mghPE = mgh.

Learn more about Gravitational Potential Energy →

More Gravitational Potential Energy Examples

Example 2 medium

A [formula] person climbs a [formula] ladder. How much gravitational PE do they gain? Use [formula].

Example 3 easy

At what height does a [formula] object have [formula] of gravitational PE? Use [formula].

Example 4 medium

A [formula] ball is thrown upward and reaches a maximum height of [formula]. What was the ball's kin

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