Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. It is the energy that is required to move an object from its current position to a reference point, usually at infinity, without any acceleration.
The gravitational potential energy of an object can be 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 distance from the object to the reference point.
The two main factors that affect gravitational potential energy are the mass of the object and its distance from the reference point. The greater the mass and the farther the distance, the higher the potential energy.
Gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy are forms of mechanical energy that are interrelated. As an object falls, its potential energy decreases while its kinetic energy increases. At the bottom of its fall, all of its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy.
Gravitational potential energy is used in many everyday activities, such as lifting and lowering objects, riding a rollercoaster, or throwing a ball. It is also used in various forms of renewable energy, such as hydroelectric power, where the potential energy of water is converted into kinetic energy to generate electricity.