Here's why:

* Potential Energy: This is the energy an object possesses due to its position or configuration.

* Gravity: Gravity pulls objects towards the center of the Earth. The higher an object is, the greater the distance it can fall.

* Work: To lift an object against gravity, work must be done. This work is stored in the object as potential energy.

Example: Imagine a rock sitting on a cliff. It has more potential energy than a rock sitting at the bottom of the cliff because it has the potential to fall a greater distance. If the rock falls, its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy (energy of motion).