Understanding the Concepts
* Gravitational Potential Energy (GPE): The energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. It depends on the object's mass, the acceleration due to gravity, and its height above a reference point (usually the ground).
* Formula: GPE = mgh, where:
* m = mass (kg)
* g = acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.8 m/s²)
* h = height (m)
Solving the Problem
1. Identify the known values:
* GPE = 58.5 J
* m = 2 kg
* g = 9.8 m/s²
2. Rearrange the formula to solve for height (h):
* h = GPE / (mg)
3. Substitute the known values and calculate:
* h = 58.5 J / (2 kg * 9.8 m/s²)
* h ≈ 3 m
Answer: The block is approximately 3 meters above the floor.