Final answer:
The potential energy of a 5.0 kg book is calculated for three shelving heights using the formula PE = mgh. At heights of 1.0 m, 1.5 m, and 2.0 m, the potential energies are 49 J, 73.5 J, and 98 J, respectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
We are asked to calculate the potential energy of a 5.0 kg book that is moved to three different shelves on a bookcase, with each shelf at heights of 1.0 m, 1.5 m, and 2.0 m. The formula to find gravitational potential energy (PE) is PE = mgh, where m is mass in kilograms, g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²), and h is the height in meters.
- For the first shelf at 1.0 m: PE = (5.0 kg)(9.8 m/s²)(1.0 m) = 49 J.
- For the second shelf at 1.5 m: PE = (5.0 kg)(9.8 m/s²)(1.5 m) = 73.5 J.
- For the third shelf at 2.0 m: PE = (5.0 kg)(9.8 m/s²)(2.0 m) = 98 J.
The potential energy of the book increases with height, as the amount of energy stored due to its position in a gravitational field increases.