Answer:
Answer in Explanation
Step-by-step explanation:
Whenever we talk about the gravitational potential energy, it means the energy stored in a body due to its position in the gravitational field. Now, we know that in the gravitational field the work is only done when the body moves vertically. If the body moves horizontally on the same surface in the Earth's Gravitational Field, then the work done on the body is considered to be zero. Hence, the work done or the energy stored in the object while in the gravitational field is only possible if it moves vertically. This vertical distance is referred to as height. This is the main reason why we require height in the P.E formula and calculations.
The derivation of this formula is as follows:
Work = Force * Displacement
For gravitational potential energy:
Work = P.E
Force = Weight = mg
Displacement = Vertical Displacement = Height = h
Therefore,
P.E = mgh