Where is the potential energy the greatest?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

The question asks where the potential energy is greatest. In gravitational potential energy, PE = m g h, so, all else equal, the highest position (largest height h above the chosen reference level) yields the greatest potential energy.
However, the provided data shows that there are no answer options listed to compare. Without options to evaluate, we cannot select a specific choice, but we can still outline how to reason once options are present: compare the height of each scenario for gravitational potential energy, noting that m and g are constant for a given object on Earth, so the largest h corresponds to the largest PE.
If a different form of potential energy were at play in the question (for example, elastic potential energy), the correct criterion would change: elastic PE is 1/2 k x^2 and would be greatest at the largest displacement x from the equilibrium.
In summary, for gravitational potential energy, the scenario with the greatest height has the greatest PE, assuming mass and gravitational field are the same across options; since no options are provided, this general rule cannot be applied to pick a specific choice here.
What to look for in complete options: identify the option with the object at the highest vertical position relative to the chosen zero of potential energy, and confirm there are no larger heights in the remaining options; if multiple forms of energy are involved, apply the appropriate formula for each type and compare the resulting values.

FFP001 Threshold Quiz 5 | LA020

Where is the potential energy the greatest?

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