NCEA Level 2 Mechanics Practice Test

In physics, the designation Ep typically refers to gravitational potential energy. Gravitational potential energy is defined as the energy an object possesses due to its position within a gravitational field. The formula used to calculate gravitational potential energy is:

Ep = mgh

where m represents the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.81 m/s² on Earth), and h is the height of the object above a reference point (usually the ground).

When considering the other options, energy potential is a vague term that does not specifically define the type of potential energy being discussed. Elastic potential energy specifically relates to the energy stored in elastic materials when they are stretched or compressed, such as springs. Electrical potential pertains to the energy per unit charge due to an electric field, which is a separate concept from gravitational potential energy. Thus, the correct association of Ep as gravitational potential energy is foundational in understanding the broader context of energy in mechanics.