AFOQT Practice Test

What type of potential energy is related specifically to an object's height?

1. Kinetic potential energy

2. Electric potential energy

3. Gravitational potential energy

4. Chemical potential energy

The correct answer is: Gravitational potential energy

Gravitational potential energy is the type of potential energy that relates specifically to an object's height above a reference point, usually the ground. This form of energy is influenced by two main factors: the mass of the object and its height. The higher an object is positioned, the more gravitational potential energy it possesses due to the gravitational force acting on it. This energy is calculated using the formula \( PE = mgh \), where \( PE \) represents potential energy, \( m \) is the mass of the object, \( g \) is the acceleration due to gravity, and \( h \) is the height. The other types of potential energy mentioned do not specifically relate to height. Kinetic potential energy isn't a valid term since kinetic energy refers to motion rather than position. Electric potential energy deals with charged particles in electric fields and relates to their position in those fields, rather than to height in a gravitational sense. Chemical potential energy concerns the energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds and is not related to height.