GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Gravitational Potential Energy

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Forces Work done and energy transfer

Gravitational Potential Energy

4:13 Work, Kinetic Energy and Gravitaitonal Potential Energy
Spec 4.1.1.1 4.1.1.2 4.5.2
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  • Dropping from a height causes an object to gain kinetic energy.
  • A diver gains kinetic energy from gravitational potential energy (GPE) despite no apparent input energy store.
  • Gravity converts GPE to kinetic energy.
  • GPE is energy held by an object raised above ground level or within a gravitational field.
  • GPE formula: GPE = mass x gravitational field strength x height.
  • Gravitational field strength is the force acting on a mass, determining weight force.
  • The formula applies at a planet's surface where gravitational field strength is constant.
  • GPE is measured in joules; mass in kilograms; height in meters; gravitational field strength in meters per second squared (9.8 on Earth's surface).
  • The GPE equation is crucial for exams and GPE-related questions.
  • Example: A 3 kg eagle with 100 kilojoules of GPE dives; calculate its height.
  • Key information: mass = 3 kg, GPE = 100,000 joules, field strength = 9.8 m/s��.
  • Rearrange GPE equation to solve for height: height = GPE / (mass x field strength).
  • Substitute values: height = 100,000 J / (3 kg x 9.8 m/s��) = 3401.36 meters.
  • Round height to two significant figures: 3,400 meters.

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