Gravitational potential energy

Definition

Gravitational potential energy (GPE) is the energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. It is calculated using the formula $U = mgh$, where $U$ is the gravitational potential energy, $m$ is the mass of the object, $g$ is the acceleration due to gravity, and $h$ is the height above a reference point.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gravitational potential energy increases with height and mass.
2. The formula for GPE is $U = mgh$, where each variable plays a critical role in determining the total energy.
3. GPE depends on a chosen reference point; changing this point changes the calculated value of GPE.
4. In a closed system, gravitational potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy and vice versa, illustrating the conservation of mechanical energy.
5. The standard unit for measuring GPE in physics is joules (J).

Review Questions

• What factors affect an object's gravitational potential energy?
• How does gravitational potential energy change when an object's height doubles?
• What happens to gravitational potential energy when mass decreases but height remains constant?

Related terms

Kinetic Energy: The energy that an object possesses due to its motion, calculated by the formula $KE = \frac{1}{2} mv^2$.

Mechanical Energy: The sum of an object's kinetic and potential energies. In a closed system, it remains constant.

Conservation of Energy: \\text{A principle stating that within a closed system, total energy remains constant over time.}