Final answer:
The increase in the bowling ball's potential energy is calculated using the formula PE = mgh, yielding an increase of 82.32 joules.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the increase in the bowling ball's potential energy as it is lifted into a storage rack, we can use the formula for gravitational potential energy (PE), which is PE = mgh, where m is mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height.
In this case, the mass m of the bowling ball is 5.6 kg, the acceleration due to gravity g is 9.8 m/s², and the height h the ball is lifted is 1.5 m. Plugging these values into the formula, we get:
PE = (5.6 kg) × (9.8 m/s²) × (1.5 m)
PE = 82.32 J
Therefore, the increase in the bowling ball's potential energy is 82.32 joules (J).