Gravitational potential energy is the energy possessed by a body due to its position in the gravitational field of the Earth.
The gravitational potential energy of a body at a height is equal to the work done against gravity to raise the body to that height.
For a body of mass m raised to a height h above the ground:
Gravitational Potential Energy (PE) = m g h
The SI unit of gravitational potential energy is joule (J).
When a body falls freely from a height, its gravitational potential energy is converted into kinetic energy.
Q1. Gravitational potential energy depends on: A) Speed B) Shape C) Position D) Temperature Answer: C Q2. Formula for gravitational potential energy is: A) (1/2) m v² B) F × s C) m g h D) G m₁ m₂ / r² Answer: C Q3. SI unit of gravitational potential energy is: A) Newton B) Joule C) Watt D) Pascal Answer: B Q4. A body of mass 2 kg is lifted to a height of 5 m. Find its gravitational potential energy (g = 10 m/s²). A) 20 J B) 50 J C) 100 J D) 200 J Answer: C Q5. Gravitational potential energy becomes zero when: A) Mass is zero B) Height is zero C) Velocity is zero D) Force is zero Answer: B Q6. Water stored in a dam possesses: A) Kinetic energy B) Heat energy C) Chemical energy D) Gravitational potential energy Answer: D Q7. When a body falls freely, its potential energy: A) Increases B) Remains same C) Decreases D) Becomes zero instantly Answer: C Q8. During free fall, gravitational potential energy is converted into: A) Heat energy B) Sound energy C) Kinetic energy D) Electrical energy Answer: C
Energy possessed by a body due to its position in Earth's gravitational field.
PE = m g h
Joule (J)
Gravitational potential energy converts into kinetic energy during free fall.
Numericals are commonly asked using PE = mgh. Always take g = 10 m/s² unless specified.
