Gravitational Potential Energy Physics Example 3

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

easy

At what height does a

2 \text{ kg}

object have

392 \text{ J}

of gravitational PE? Use

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

1
Rearrange $PE = mgh$ for $h$ .
2
$h = \frac{PE}{mg} = \frac{392}{2 \times 9.8} = \frac{392}{19.6} = 20 \text{ m}$

Answer

h = 20 \text{ m}

The gravitational PE formula can be rearranged to find height, mass, or g when the other quantities are known.

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?

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

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