Stone A is placed on the roof of a 5-story building, while identical Stone B sits on the roof of a 2-story…
Stone A is placed on the roof of a 5-story building, while identical Stone B sits on the roof of a 2-story building. Which stone possesses greater potential energy relative to the ground?
Stone B, because it is closer to the ground
Stone A, because potential energy increases with height
Both have identical potential energy because their masses are equal
Neither has potential energy since both are resting
Solution
Gravitational potential energy depends on mass and height above ground. Being at a greater height, Stone A stores more potential energy.