Potential Energy Formula

In physics, the simplest definition of energy is the ability to do work. Various forms of energy are studied in physics. Potential energy is classified into numerous categories, each of which is related to a certain type of force. It is the energy generated as a result of an object’s location in relation to other items.

The energy that an item possesses as a result of its location. Furthermore, it is referred to as potential energy since it has the potential, i.e., the ability to be turned into other types of energy. Notably, it might also apply to various types of stored energy, such as energy from chemical bonds, net electrical charge, or internal tension.

Types of Potential Energy

Gravitational Potential Energy: An object’s gravitational potential energy is the energy it possesses when it rises to a specific height against gravity. The following picture depicts an object O that has been held at a height h from the ground.

Formula For Gravitational Potential Energy

W = mgh

where,

• m denotes the mass of the object.
• g denotes the acceleration due to gravity.
• h denotes the height at which the object has been raised from the ground.

Elastic Potential Energy: The energy contained in compressible or stretchable items such as elastic bands, trampolines, and bungee cords is called elastic potential energy.  The more an object’s ability to stretch, the greater it’s elastic potential energy. An item that accumulates has EPE often has a high elastic limit; nonetheless, all elastic things have a load limit. When an object is deformed beyond its elastic limit, its original shape cannot be revived.

Formula For Elastic Potential Energy

where,

• k denotes the constant force of spring
• x denotes the length of the stretched spring

Sample Problems

Problem 1. Find the GPE of an object of mass 2 kg raised 6 m above the ground.

Solution:

Given: m = 2 kg, h = 6 m

Since, W = mgh

⇒ W = 2 kg x 9.8 m/s² x 6 m

= 117.6 J

Problem 2. Find the GPE of an object of mass 4 kg raised 2 m above the ground.

Solution:

Given: m = 4 kg, h = 2 m

Since, W = mgh

⇒ W = 4 kg x 9.8 m/s2 x 2 m

= 78.4 J

Problem 3. Find the GPE of an object of mass 10 kg raised 20 m above the ground.

Solution:

Given: m = 10 kg, h = 20 m

Since, W = mgh

⇒ W = 10 kg x 9.8 m/s2 x 20 m

= 1960 J

Problem 4. Find the GPE of an object of mass 8 kg raised 9 m above the ground.

Solution:

Given: m = 8 kg, h = 9 m

Since, W = mgh

⇒ W = 8 kg x 9.8 m/s2 x 9 m

= 705.6 J

Problem 5. Find the GPE of an object of mass 1 kg raised 20 m above the ground.

Solution:

Given: m = 1 kg, h = 20 m

Since, W = mgh

⇒ W = 1 kg x 9.8 m/s2 x 20 m

= 196 J