A weight raised a certain height gains 19.6 J of potential energy. A second block with three times the mass is raised through the same height. What is the potential energy gained? a. 6.53 J b. 58.8 J c. 9.8 J d. 19.6 J

58.8J

Explanation:

Given parameters:

Potential energy gained = 19.6J

  Let the mass of the first one = m

         Mass of the second one = 3m  

Unknown:

New potential energy = ?

Solution:

Potential energy is the energy due to the position of a body;

        P.E  = mgh

  The body were raised through the same height

   let the height = h

First potential energy;

        P.E  = 19.6 = m x g x h

Second potential energy;

       P.E  = 3m x g  h

From the first body;

       mgh = 19.6

Second body;

      P.E  = 3(mgh) = 3(19.6) = 58.8J