In which scenario is gravitational potential energy present?

Question

A rabbit looks out of a hole in the ground.
A squirrel runs up the trunk of a tree.
A deer runs across a grassy field.
A cat pins a mouse to the ground.

Answer 1

Gravitational potential energy is present in scenarios where an object is positioned at a height relative to a reference point (usually the ground), and there is the potential for that object to fall under the influence of gravity.

Among the options provided, the scenario where a squirrel runs up the trunk of a tree is the one where gravitational potential energy is present. As the squirrel climbs, it increases its height above the ground, thereby increasing its gravitational potential energy.

In contrast:

• The rabbit simply looking out of a hole does not involve any height change.
• The deer running across a grassy field does not necessarily involve a change in elevation.
• The cat pinning the mouse to the ground also does not involve a change in height.

So, the answer is: A squirrel runs up the trunk of a tree.