Question

Derive the formula for potential energy.

Explanation.​

Answer 1

Answer:

Potential energy is the work done to take a body to a certain height. For a body with mass m, h is the distance to which it is raised and g is the gravitational force acting on the body, then work done W is given as:

W = force * displacement

W = mg * h

∴ W = mgh

As the work done is equal to mgh which is gained by the object, potential energy Ep is given as:

Ep = mgh

Therefore, the above is the derivation of potential energy.

Answer 2

In physics, Potential energy is the energy held by an object because of its position, internal structure or chemical composition relative to other objects.

Types of potential energy include :

- gravitational energy

- chemical energy

- nuclear energy

- elastic energy

- electric energy

Formula for the potential energy :

P E = mgh

m = mass (in kg)

g = 9.8 N/kg

h = height (in m)