Question 12 (1 point)
The gravitational potential energy of an object depends on the mass of the object, the strength of the gravitational field, and which of the following relative to the ground?
a
the shape of the object
b
the speed of the object
c
the height of the object
d
the color of the object
c) the height of the object
c
the height of the object
The gravitational potential energy of an object depends on the mass of the object, the strength of the gravitational field, and most importantly, the height of the object relative to the ground. Therefore, the correct answer is option c: the height of the object.
To understand why the height of the object is relevant, we can refer to the formula for gravitational potential energy:
Potential Energy (PE) = Mass (m) x Gravity (g) x Height (h)
As you can see, the height (h) is a factor that determines the gravitational potential energy of an object. The higher an object is located above the ground, the greater its potential energy due to gravity. Conversely, if the object is closer to the ground (i.e., at a lower height), its potential energy decreases.
In contrast, the other options listed (a, b, and d) do not affect the gravitational potential energy. The shape of the object, the speed of the object, and the color of the object have no direct influence on the potential energy of an object due to gravity.