Question

directions: solve the following word problems using the potential energy formula (be sure to show your work).

p.e. = weight x height

1. a 95 - kg refrigerator is located on the 70th floor of a skyscraper that is 300 meters above the ground. what is the potential energy of the refrigerator?

Explanation:

Step1: Identify the values

Weight \(m = 95\space kg\), Height \(h=300\space m\), \(g = 9.8\space m/s^{2}\) (acceleration due to gravity, since weight \(W=mg\)). First, calculate weight \(W = 95\times9.8\).
$$W=95\times9.8 = 931\space N$$

Step2: Calculate potential energy

Use the formula \(P.E.=W\times h\). Substitute \(W = 931\space N\) and \(h = 300\space m\) into the formula.
$$P.E.=931\times300=279300\space J$$

Answer:

The potential energy of the refrigerator is \(279300\space J\)