Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy

Gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy — practice question

An object with mass $m$ is released from rest onto the surfaces of two planets, X and Y, both of which have no atmosphere. The drop height and the resulting change in the object’s gravitational potential energy are listed for each planet in the table. For planet X: drop height $3\,\text{m}$, change in gravitational potential energy $\Delta E$. For planet Y: drop height $4\,\text{m}$, change in gravitational potential energy $4\Delta E$. The acceleration of free fall close to the surface of planet X is $g_x$. What is the acceleration of free fall close to the surface of planet Y?

  • A$\frac{3}{4}g_x$
  • B$\frac{4}{3}g_x$
  • C$3g_x$
  • D$4g_x$

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 1-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme.

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI