Gravitational Potential and Kinetic Energy _ GCSE Physics

The video tutorial explains gravitational potential energy, which depends on an object's mass and height. It discusses the arbitrary assignment of zero height, typically at ground level, and calculates potential energy using Mount Everest as an example. The conversion of potential energy to kinetic energy is explored, with calculations for kinetic energy and energy loss as heat. The video concludes with an explanation of energy loss in pendulums due to heat dissipation.

What are the two main variables that affect the gravitational potential energy of an object?

• Height and velocity

• Mass and height

• Mass and velocity

• Mass and temperature

Why is the ground typically considered a position of zero height?

• Because it is the starting point for all measurements

• Because it is a universally agreed arbitrary position

• Because it has no gravitational pull

• Because it is the lowest point on Earth

How is the gravitational potential energy of a person on Mount Everest calculated?

• By dividing the mass by the height and gravitational field strength

• By adding the mass, height, and gravitational field strength

• By multiplying the mass, height, and gravitational field strength

• By subtracting the height from the mass and gravitational field strength

What happens to most of the gravitational potential energy when a person jumps off a high point?

• It is converted into sound energy

• It is converted into kinetic energy

• It remains as potential energy

• It is lost as heat

Why does a pendulum eventually stop swinging?

• Because it loses energy as heat

• Because it gains too much kinetic energy

• Because it loses energy as sound

• Because it runs out of potential energy