POTENTIAL ENERGY

Front

What is gravitational potential energy (GPE)?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field, typically calculated as GPE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

Front

What factors affect gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy depends on the mass of the object, the height of the object above a reference point, and the strength of the gravitational field.

Front

At which position does a child on a swing have the most gravitational potential energy?

Back

At the highest point of the swing's arc.

Front

How can you increase an object's gravitational potential energy without changing its height?

Back

By increasing the object's mass.

Front

What is the value of Earth's acceleration due to gravity (g)?

Back

9.8 m/s².

Front

How can you increase the gravitational potential energy of an object without changing its mass?

Back

By raising the object farther off the ground.

Front

What is the formula for calculating gravitational potential energy?

Back

GPE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is height.

Front

What happens to gravitational potential energy when an object is lowered?

Back

The gravitational potential energy decreases as the height of the object decreases.

Front

What is the relationship between height and gravitational potential energy?

Back

Gravitational potential energy is directly proportional to height; as height increases, GPE increases.

Front

Can gravitational potential energy be negative?

Back

Yes, if the reference point for height is above the object's position, the GPE can be considered negative.