Gravitational Potential Energy Physics Example 2

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

medium

50 \text{ kg}

person climbs a

15 \text{ m}

ladder. How much gravitational PE do they gain? Use

g = 9.8 \text{ m/s}^2

1
Use the change in gravitational potential energy formula: $\Delta PE = mg\Delta h$ .
2
Substitute the values: $\Delta PE = 50 \times 9.8 \times 15$ .
3
$\Delta PE = 7350 \text{ J}$

Answer

\Delta PE = 7350 \text{ J}

Climbing increases gravitational PE. The work done against gravity is stored as PE and could be recovered (e.g., by sliding back down).

About Gravitational Potential Energy

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

What is the gravitational potential energy of a [formula] book on a shelf [formula] above the floor?

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

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