For the PE formula, why is the height required for calculations? Why do we need to know the height in order to determine PE? *

Answer in Explanation

Explanation:

Whenever we talk about the gravitational potential energy, it means the energy stored in a body due to its position in the gravitational field. Now, we know that in the gravitational field the work is only done when the body moves vertically. If the body moves horizontally on the same surface in the Earth's Gravitational Field, then the work done on the body is considered to be zero. Hence, the work done or the energy stored in the object while in the gravitational field is only possible if it moves vertically. This vertical distance is referred to as height. This is the main reason why we require height in the P.E formula and calculations.

The derivation of this formula is as follows:

Work = Force * Displacement

For gravitational potential energy:

Work = P.E

Force = Weight = mg

Displacement = Vertical Displacement = Height = h

Therefore,

P.E = mgh

the independent variable, the one that is intentionally manipulated, is whether or not the car hits the barrier.

the dependent variable, the one that you measure the response in, is the distance that the washers travel.