* Potential Energy: This is the energy an object possesses due to its position or configuration. In the context of gravity, it's the energy stored by an object because of its height above a reference point (usually the ground).
* Gravitational Potential Energy: This is the most common type of potential energy we deal with. The formula is:
PE = mgh
where:
* PE = Potential Energy
* m = mass of the object
* g = acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.8 m/s²)
* h = height above the reference point
* Lowering the Object: When you lower an object, you are decreasing its 'h' (height). Since 'h' is directly proportional to potential energy, lowering the object means decreasing its potential energy.
Example: Imagine a ball held high in the air. It has a lot of potential energy. As you lower the ball, its potential energy decreases. This energy is converted into kinetic energy (the energy of motion) as the ball accelerates downwards.
