The amount of gravitational potential energy released as an object falls depends on
A)the distance it falls.
B)its speed at the time it begins falling.
C)neither the distance it falls nor its speed at the time it begins falling.
D)the distance it falls and its speed at the time it begins falling.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The amount of gravitational potential energy released as an object falls depends primarily on the distance it falls. The formula for gravitational potential energy is $PE = mgh$, where $m$ is mass, $g$ is the acceleration due to gravity, and $h$ is the height or distance fallen. The speed at which the object begins falling does not factor into this calculation.

The Amount of Gravitational Potential Energy Released as an Object