Question

Which of these represents a scenario where gravitational potential energy increases?

a) A hockey puck is hit across the ice
b) A rock falls from a cliff
c) An elevator goes from the 4th floor to the 10th floor
d) A bucket of water at the top of a building is poured out

Answer 1

Gravitational potential energy increases when an object is lifted higher or moves to a higher position due to gravity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gravitational potential energy increases when an object is lifted higher or moves to a higher position due to gravity. In this scenario, the elevator going from the 4th floor to the 10th floor represents an increase in gravitational potential energy. As the elevator moves up, the object inside the elevator is being lifted to a higher position, increasing its potential energy.