1.1.4 Gravitational Potential Energy

Cards (10)

  • Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object has due to its height in a gravitational field.
  • 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.
  • The gravitational potential energy, Ep, of an object can be calculated using the equation: Ep = m × g × h.
  • 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.
  • m = mass, in kilograms (kg).
  • 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.