Which form of potential energy is related to the energy stored in an object due to its height?

Prepare for the GACE Middle Grades Science Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

The correct choice is gravitational potential energy, which refers to the energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. Specifically, this energy is directly related to an object's height above a reference point, typically the ground. The greater the height, the more gravitational potential energy the object has, because it has the potential to do work if it falls under the influence of gravity.

Gravitational potential energy is calculated using the formula ( PE = mgh ), where ( PE ) is the potential energy, ( m ) is the mass of the object, ( g ) is the acceleration due to gravity, and ( h ) is the height above the reference point. This relationship illustrates that potential energy is stored based on an object's elevation and the gravitational force acting upon it.

In contrast, the other types of potential energy listed refer to different sources of energy. Chemical potential energy relates to the energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds, nuclear potential energy deals with energy stored in the cores of atoms, and electrical potential energy is associated with the position of charged particles in an electric field. Each of these forms of energy does not specifically pertain to an object's height in a gravitational field, making gravitational potential energy the only relevant answer in

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy