Final answer:
The gravitational potential energy of a 5 kg rock on the edge of a 10 m high cliff is calculated using the formula GPE = mgh, yielding a GPE of 490 Joules.
Step-by-step explanation:
The gravitational potential energy (GPE) of an object is given by the formula GPE = mgh, where m is the mass of the object in kilograms, g is the acceleration due to gravity (approximated as 9.8 m/s² on Earth's surface), and h is the height in meters above the reference point. In the case of a 5 kg rock sitting on the edge of a cliff that is 10 m high, the gravitational potential energy can be calculated as follows:
m (mass) = 5 kg
g (acceleration due to gravity) = 9.8 m/s²
h (height) = 10 m
Now, substituting these values into the formula:
GPE = m * g * h
GPE = 5 kg * 9.8 m/s² * 10 m
GPE = 490 Joules.
Therefore, the rock has a gravitational potential energy of 490 Joules at the top of the cliff. When it falls to the ground, assuming no other energy losses due to air resistance or other factors, this energy will be converted into kinetic energy.