Which factors determine the potential energy of an object?

Gravity and position

Mass and velocity

Weight and velocity

Mass and position

1 answer

The potential energy of an object, particularly gravitational potential energy, is primarily determined by mass and position. The formula for gravitational potential energy is given by:

\[ PE = mgh \]

where:

  • \( PE \) is the potential energy,
  • \( m \) is the mass of the object,
  • \( g \) is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.81 m/s² on Earth),
  • \( h \) is the height or position of the object above a reference point.

So, the correct factors from your options are mass and position.