Did this video help you?
Gravitational Potential Energy (AQA GCSE Physics: Combined Science)
Revision Note
What is Gravitational Potential Energy?
- Energy in the gravitational store of an object is defined as:
The energy an object has due to its height in a gravitational field
- This means:
- If an object is lifted up, energy is transferred to its gravitational potential store
- If an object falls, energy will be transferred away from its gravitational potential store
Gravitational Potential Energy Equation
- The gravitational potential energy, Ep, of an object can be calculated using the equation:
Ep = m × g × h
- Where:
- Ep = gravitational potential energy, in joules (J)
- m = mass, in kilograms (kg)
- g = gravitational field strength in newtons per kilogram (N/kg)
- h = height in metres (m)
Gravitational Field Strength
- The gravitational field strength (g) on the Earth is approximately 9.8 N/kg
- The gravitational field strength on the surface of the Moon is less than on the Earth
- This means it would be easier to lift a mass on the Moon than on the Earth
- The gravitational field strength on the surface of the gas giants (eg. Jupiter and Saturn) is more than on the Earth
- This means it would be harder to lift a mass on the gas giants than on the Earth
Some values for g on the different objects in the Solar System
Worked example
A man of mass 70 kg climbs a flight of stairs that is 3 m higher than the floor. Gravitational field strength is approximately 9.8 N/kg. Calculate the energy transferred to the man's gravitational potential energy store.
Step 1: List the known quantities
-
-
- Mass of the man, m = 70 kg
- Gravitational field strength, g = 9.8 N/kg
- Height, Δh = 3 m
-
Step 2: Write down the equation for gravitational potential energy
ΔEP = mgΔh
Step 3: Calculate the gravitational potential energy
ΔEP = 70 × 9.8 × 3
ΔEP = 2058 J
Examiner Tip
When doing calculations involving gravitational field strength, g, always use the value of 9.8 N/kg unless you are told otherwise in your exam question. You will be expected to remember the value of g for your exam!
You've read 0 of your 10 free revision notes
Unlock more, it's free!
Did this page help you?