Gravitational Potential Energy (AQA GCSE Physics Combined Science): Revision Notes
📚Revision Notes
1.1.4 Gravitational Potential Energy
Note
Gravitational potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position above the earth's surface. This is due to the force of gravity acting on an object.
Note
FORMULA
- : Gravitational potential energy (J)
- : Mass (kg)
- : Gravitational field strength (N/kg)
- : Height (m)
Example
Example: If a 2 kg object is lifted 3 metres above the ground, the gravitational potential energy is:
This means the object has 58.8 joules of gravitational potential energy.
Real-World Application
When an object is lifted, it gains gravitational potential energy. If the object falls, this energy is converted into kinetic energy, increasing its speed as it descends.