* Potential Energy: The rock possesses potential energy due to its position relative to the ground. Potential energy is stored energy that an object has because of its position or state. The higher the rock is above the ground, the more potential energy it has.

* Gravitational Potential Energy: This is a specific type of potential energy that arises from the force of gravity. The rock has gravitational potential energy because it is in a gravitational field, and it could fall to a lower position.

Think of it this way:

If the rock were to fall off the cliff, it would gain speed and kinetic energy (the energy of motion). This kinetic energy comes from the conversion of its potential energy.

So, even though the rock is stationary on the cliff, it still has potential energy waiting to be released.