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O LevelPhysicsCambridgeRevision Notes1. Motion, Forces & Energy1.7 Energy, Work & PowerGravitational Potential Energy

Gravitational Potential Energy (Cambridge O Level Physics)

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Dan MG

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Dan MG

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Gravitational Potential Energy

  • Energy in the gravitational potential 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 will be transferred to its gravitational store 
    • If an object falls, energy will be transferred away from its gravitational store 
  • The gravitational potential energy of an object can be calculated using the equation:

ΔEP = mgΔh

  • Where:
    • ΔEP = change in gravitational potential energy, in joules (J)
    • m = mass, in kilograms (kg)
    • g = gravitational field strength in newtons per kilogram (N/kg)
    • Δh = change in height in metres (m)

Energy in the Gravitational Potential Store

1-7-3-gravitational-potential-energy-cie-igcse-23-rn

Energy is transferred to the mass's gravitational store as it is lifted above the ground

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.

Answer:

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

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    Dan MG

    Author: Dan MG

    Expertise: Physics

    Dan graduated with a First-class Masters degree in Physics at Durham University, specialising in cell membrane biophysics. After being awarded an Institute of Physics Teacher Training Scholarship, Dan taught physics in secondary schools in the North of England before moving to SME. Here, he carries on his passion for writing enjoyable physics questions and helping young people to love physics.