Question

If the gravitational potential energy is zero at the surface, what is the potential energy for a 35 kg fragment at its maximum height (500 km ) on Io?

Answer 1

Answer:

171500J

Explanation:

Given parameters:

Mass of the body  = 35kg

Maximum height = 500km

Unknown:

Potential energy of the body = ?

Solution:

The potential energy of a body is the energy at rest of a body. It is mathematically expressed as;

           P.E  = mgh

where m is the mass

           g is the acceleration due to gravity = 9.8m/s²

           h is the height of the body

Now insert the parameters and solve;

           P.E  = 35 x 9.8 x 500  = 171500J