Gravitational potential energy

In summary, gravitational potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. It is calculated using the formula U = mgh and is directly proportional to the object's mass and height. Height has a significant impact on gravitational potential energy and it can be negative when the object is below the reference level in a gravitational field.
  • #1
jack1234
133
0
The answer is c, but I can't figure out what is the reason, can somebody kindly explain it?
http://tinyurl.com/32322t
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
What do you think about gravitational potential energy of a cubical block?
 
  • #3
I am thinking about centre mass...
So what I am figuring is
3m*g*(3/2 l)=9/2mgl...(3/2 l because the centre of mass is at that height)
Is it correct?
 
  • #4
perfect.
 

1. What is gravitational potential energy?

Gravitational potential energy is the energy that an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. It is the energy an object has because of its potential to fall towards a source of gravity.

2. How is gravitational potential energy calculated?

Gravitational potential energy is calculated using the formula U = mgh, where U is the potential energy, m is the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height of the object.

3. What is the relationship between mass and gravitational potential energy?

The relationship between mass and gravitational potential energy is directly proportional. This means that as the mass of an object increases, its gravitational potential energy also increases.

4. How does height affect gravitational potential energy?

Height has a significant impact on gravitational potential energy. As the height of an object increases, its potential energy also increases. This is because the object has a greater potential to fall and gain kinetic energy.

5. Can gravitational potential energy be negative?

Yes, gravitational potential energy can be negative. This typically occurs when an object is positioned below the reference level in a gravitational field. In this case, the potential energy is considered to be negative relative to the reference level.

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