Potential Energy
Potential energy is the energy possessed by a body due to its position or configuration. In this chapter, gravitational potential energy is mainly used.
Practice This ConceptMain explanation
Teacher explanation
When an object is raised above a chosen reference level, work is done against gravity and energy is stored as gravitational potential energy. The value depends on mass, gravitational acceleration, and height from the reference level.
Example
Water stored in a tank on the roof has gravitational potential energy because it is at a height.
Simple analogy
Height stores energy against gravity.
Common confusion
Students sometimes use total height from the ground even when the question gives a different reference level.
Exam tip
Read the reference level carefully. Height in mgh means vertical height from the chosen level, not distance travelled along a path.
Answer writing and exam use
1-mark use
Write the exact meaning of potential energy in one clean line.
2-mark use
Define potential energy and add one example or condition.
3-mark use
Explain potential energy, show the method or example, and mention the common mistake.
Practice this concept with focused MCQs
Open the concept quiz intro first, review the test details, and then start a focused MCQ set from this concept only. Instant score and answer review are live now.
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