Final Answer:
The gravitational potential energy of the 5.9 kg book sitting on top of a 2.2 m bookshelf is approximately 129.36 joules.
Step-by-step explanation:
When calculating the gravitational potential energy (GPE), we use the formula GPE = mgh, where m is the mass in kilograms, g is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.81 m/s^2), and h is the height in meters. Plugging in the values, we get GPE = 5.9 kg 9.81 m/s^2 2.2 m = 129.36 J.
This means that the book has 129.36 joules of gravitational potential energy due to its position on top of the bookshelf. This energy represents the work that would be done if the book were to fall from the shelf to the ground, converting its potential energy into kinetic energy.
In conclusion, the gravitational potential energy of the book is directly proportional to its mass, the acceleration due to gravity, and the height of the shelf. In this case, with a mass of 5.9 kg and a height of 2.2 m, the book possesses approximately 129.36 joules of gravitational potential energy.