5.3. Gravitational, Elastic and Electric Potential Energy

Question 1

Gravitational Potential Energy

Answer 1

Arises in a system of masses where there are attractive gravitational forces between them. The g.p.e of an object is the energy it possesses by virtue of its position in a gravitational field.

Question 2

Elastic potential energy

Answer 2

This arises in a system of atoms where there are either attractive or repulsive short-range inter-atomic forces between them.

Question 3

Electric potential energy

Answer 3

Arises in a system of charges where there are either attractive or repulsive electric forces between them.