Gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy

Need to know

What you need to know

• GPE depends on mass, gravity, and *vertical* height.
• The reference point for 'h' is arbitrary; it defines where GPE is zero.
• Work done against gravity increases GPE.
• GPE is a scalar quantity, and can be positive or negative.
• GPE formula $mgh$ is valid for uniform gravitational fields (near Earth's surface).

Explanation

Gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy

1. GPE depends on mass, gravity, and *vertical* height.
2. The reference point for 'h' is arbitrary; it defines where GPE is zero.
3. Work done against gravity increases GPE.
4. GPE is a scalar quantity, and can be positive or negative.