Table of contents

0. Math Review31m
- Math Review
  31m
1. Intro to Physics Units1h 29m
2. 1D Motion / Kinematics3h 56m
3. Vectors2h 43m
4. 2D Kinematics1h 42m
5. Projectile Motion3h 6m
6. Intro to Forces (Dynamics)3h 22m
7. Friction, Inclines, Systems2h 44m
8. Centripetal Forces & Gravitation7h 26m
9. Work & Energy1h 59m
10. Conservation of Energy2h 54m
11. Momentum & Impulse3h 40m
12. Rotational Kinematics2h 59m
13. Rotational Inertia & Energy7h 4m
14. Torque & Rotational Dynamics2h 5m
15. Rotational Equilibrium3h 39m
16. Angular Momentum3h 6m
17. Periodic Motion2h 9m
18. Waves & Sound3h 40m
19. Fluid Mechanics4h 27m
20. Heat and Temperature3h 7m
21. Kinetic Theory of Ideal Gases1h 50m
22. The First Law of Thermodynamics1h 26m
23. The Second Law of Thermodynamics3h 11m
24. Electric Force & Field; Gauss' Law3h 42m
25. Electric Potential1h 51m
26. Capacitors & Dielectrics2h 2m
27. Resistors & DC Circuits3h 8m
28. Magnetic Fields and Forces2h 23m
29. Sources of Magnetic Field2h 30m
30. Induction and Inductance3h 38m
31. Alternating Current2h 37m
32. Electromagnetic Waves2h 14m
33. Geometric Optics2h 57m
34. Wave Optics1h 15m
35. Special Relativity2h 10m

10. Conservation of Energy

Gravitational Potential Energy

Physics

10. Conservation of Energy

Gravitational Potential Energy

Previous problemNext problem

Struggling with Physics?

Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is not an example of gravitational potential energy?

A book placed on a shelf

A satellite orbiting Earth

Water stored in a dam

A compressed spring

Previous problemNext problem

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of gravitational potential energy: It is the energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. The higher the object is, the more gravitational potential energy it has.

Analyze each option: A book placed on a shelf has gravitational potential energy because it is elevated above the ground. Water stored in a dam has gravitational potential energy due to its height above the base of the dam.

Consider the satellite orbiting Earth: Although it is in motion, it has gravitational potential energy due to its position relative to Earth. The gravitational force between the satellite and Earth contributes to its potential energy.

Examine the compressed spring: A compressed spring has elastic potential energy, not gravitational potential energy. Elastic potential energy is stored when objects are compressed or stretched.

Identify the correct answer: The compressed spring is not an example of gravitational potential energy, as its energy is derived from its compression, not its position in a gravitational field.