1. Gravitational Potential Energy

2. Gravitational Potential Energy
Gravitational potential energy (PE) is gained when a mass (m) is moved vertically upwards some distance (h) in a gravitational field (g).
PE = m x g x h
PE Energy Joule (J)
m mass kilogramme (kg)
g grav field Newton/kilogramme (N/kg)
h height metre (m) .

3. Example (1)
A mass of 50 kg is lifted up a vertical distance of 40 m. What is the gravitational potential energy gained ? g = 10 N/kg
PE = m x g x h
PE = 50 x 10 x 40
PE = 20,000 J

4. Example (2)
A mass of 800 g is raised a total vertical height of 50 cm. Calculate the potential energy gained.
PE = m x g x h
PE = 0.8 x 10 x 0.5
PE = 4 J