A toolbox is to be placed on a repair platform above the shop floor

PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Work Energy and Power · Work Energy and Power

Problem

3\,\text{kg}

toolbox is to be placed on a repair platform

2.0\,\text{m}

above the shop floor. Compare the change in its gravitational potential energy when the task is performed on Earth and on the Moon. Take

g_{\text{Earth}} = 9.8\,\text{m/s}^{2}

and

g_{\text{Moon}} = 1.6\,\text{m/s}^{2}

. (i) Calculate the change in gravitational potential energy on Earth. (ii) Calculate the change in gravitational potential energy on the Moon for the same lift. (iii) Determine the ratio of the values obtained in parts (i) and (ii). (iv) Give one reason, based on physical principles, for the difference in the two values.

Related theory

Mass, Weight & Apparent Weight
Gravitation
Gravitational Potential Energy
Potential energy
Conservation of energy; conservative and non-conservative forces
Work, Energy and Power
Work and Energy

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