If an object possesses 500 J of potential energy, how much work is needed to lift this object? a) 500 J

b) 250 J

c) 150 J

d) 1000 J

a) 500 J

Explanation:

Potential energy can be defined as an energy possessed by an object or body due to its position.

Mathematically, potential energy is given by the formula;

Where,

P.E represents potential energy measured in Joules.

m represents the mass of an object.

g represents acceleration due to gravity measured in meters per seconds square.

h represents the height measured in meters.

In Science, the potential energy possessed by an object or body is the same as the work done by the object or body.

Since we know that the object possessed 500 Joules of potential energy; it would ultimately require to do a work of 500 Joules to lift the object.

Mathematically, work done = force * distance

But force = mass * acceleration due to gravity

F = mg; d = h

Substituting into the work done formula, we have;

Hence, Workdone = Fd = mgh