Understanding Gravitational Potential Energy
Gravitational potential energy (GPE) is the energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. The formula for GPE is:
GPE = mgh
where:
* m is the mass of the object (in kg)
* g is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.8 m/s²)
* h is the height of the object above a reference point (in meters)
Calculations
1. Identify the values:
* m = 0.49 kg
* g = 9.8 m/s²
* h = 1.6 m
2. Plug the values into the formula:
GPE = (0.49 kg) * (9.8 m/s²) * (1.6 m)
3. Calculate the result:
GPE = 7.74 J (Joules)
Answer: The gravitational potential energy of the microscope is 7.74 Joules.
