Astronomy Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Preparation Guide

Question: 1 / 460

Which of the following contributes to an object's gravitational potential energy?

Height above ground

Gravitational potential energy is defined as the energy an object possesses because of its position in a gravitational field. The primary factor that contributes to this form of energy is the height above the ground or reference point. When an object is raised to a certain height, it has the potential to do work due to the force of gravity acting on it. The greater the height, the more gravitational potential energy the object has, as it can fall a greater distance when released.

Velocity, color, and temperature do not directly affect gravitational potential energy. While velocity is related to kinetic energy (the energy of motion), and color and temperature are properties that describe other physical characteristics of an object, they do not influence the amount of potential energy inherited from its position in a gravitational field. Hence, height above ground is the only factor that contributes to gravitational potential energy.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

Velocity

Color

Temperature

Next Question

Report this question

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy