What is the potential energy of a 1.0 kg mass 1.0 m above the ground?

2 Answers
Mar 26, 2017

PE = -9.81 N

Explanation:

Potential Energy based upon the gravitational force in calculated by the equation

PE = mgh

Where
PE = Potential Energy in Newtons (N = kg*m^2/s^2)
m = mass in kilograms (kg)
g = gravitational acceleration -9.81 m/s^2
h = height of the object in meters (m)

PE = ?
m = 1.0kg
g = -9.81 m/s^2
h = 1.0m

PE = (1.0kg)(-9.81 m/s^2)(1.0m)

PE = -9.81 kg*m^2/s^2

PE = -9.81 N

Mar 26, 2017

it depends on what number you have for g

Explanation:

With the method we use in school (In Joules):

Potential energy -> U
U = m * g * h
m <- mass of the object
g <- acceleration of gravity
h <- height of the object

if your teacher says g= 9.8 m/ s^2
then
U = 1 * 9.8 * 1
U = 9.8 J

if your teacher says g=10 m/s^2
then
U = 1 * 10 * 1
U = 10 J