Let’s solve the problem step by step.
We are asked to find the
potential energy of a 2-kilogram potted plant that is on a 1-meter-high plant stand.
The formula for potential energy (PE) is:
>
PE = m × g × h
Where:
-
m = mass in kilograms → here, it’s
2 kg
-
g = acceleration due to gravity → we use
9.8 m/s² (as given in the worksheet)
-
h = height in meters → here, it’s
1 meter
Now plug in the numbers:
> PE = 2 × 9.8 × 1
First, multiply 2 and 9.8:
> 2 × 9.8 = 19.6
Then multiply by 1:
> 19.6 × 1 = 19.6
So the potential energy is
19.6 joules.
But look at the handwritten answer in the image — it says “→ 20 J”. That means they rounded 19.6 to the nearest whole number.
In many school problems, especially when using g = 9.8, you’re expected to round to one decimal place or sometimes to the nearest whole number if instructed. Since the example shows rounding to 20 J, we’ll follow that style.
✔ Final Answer:
20 J
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of kinetic energy problems worksheet.
