Rank the points in order of gravitational potential energy, from greatest to least.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Gravitational potential energy (GPE) is determined by the height of an object above a reference point, typically the ground or a chosen zero height level. The equation for gravitational potential energy is:
[
U = mgh
]
where:
- (U) is the gravitational potential energy,
- (m) is the mass of the object,
- (g) is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s² on Earth),
- (h) is the height of the object above the reference level.
From this, you can see that gravitational potential energy increases with height. So, in a system where you’re ranking points based on their gravitational potential energy, the higher the point is from the reference level (usually the ground), the greater its potential energy will be. Conversely, the lower the point is, the less potential energy it has.
Ranking Points:
- Highest point (greatest height): The point with the greatest height will have the greatest gravitational potential energy, as (h) is directly proportional to the potential energy.
- Mid-range point (intermediate height): This will have a lower potential energy than the highest point but more than any point that is lower.
- Lowest point: The point closest to the reference level (often ground) will have the least gravitational potential energy, possibly zero if it’s at the reference height.
So, to rank points in order of gravitational potential energy:
- The point at the greatest height.
- The point at an intermediate height.
- The point at the lowest height.
Conclusion:
Gravitational potential energy depends solely on the height of the point in question. The higher an object or point is, the more gravitational potential energy it has, assuming other factors like mass are constant. When ranking, the point at the highest elevation has the greatest potential energy, and the one at the lowest elevation has the least.