The work done by the gravitational force on an object as it moves from a reference level to a higher point is:
Correct answer: B. Always negative
- A. Always positive
- B. Always negative
- C. Zero
- D. Depends on the path taken
Explanation
Gravity acts downwards while the displacement is upwards, so the force has a component opposite to the motion and the work it does is negative, which is exactly why the potential energy of the object increases. Coming back down, gravity does positive work. Because gravity is a conservative force, the work depends only on the change in height and not on the path.
This question appeared on the UHS MDCAT 2025 paper, which you can sit online with every answer explained.
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About Potential Energy
Potential energy is energy stored because of position or configuration, including gravitational potential energy near Earth's surface and elastic energy in a stretched or compressed spring. Questions use changes in potential energy and conservation of mechanical energy, while distinguishing a chosen reference level from an absolute zero of energy.
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