Question

Calculate the gravitational potential energy of a 8.6-kg mass on the surface of the Earth. Express your answer using two significant figures.

Answer 1

The gravitational potential energy of the 8.6 kg mass is 5.38x10⁸ J.

Step-by-step explanation:

We can find the gravitational potential energy of the mass using the following equation:

`E_(p) = m*g*h`

Where:

m: is the mass = 8.6 kg

g: is the gravity = 9.81 m/s^{2}

h: is the height = Earth's radius = 6371 km

Hence, we have:

`E_(p) = 8.6 kg*9.81 m/s*6371000 m = 5.38 \cdot 10^(8) J`

Therefore, the gravitational potential energy of the 8.6 kg mass is 5.38x10⁸ J.

I hope it helps you!