Question

Two bodies of equal weight are kept at heights of $h$ and $1.5h$ respectively. The ratio of their P.E. is

• A. 3 : 2
• B. 2 : 3
• C. 1 : 1
• D. None of these

Answer 1

The correct option is B 2 : 3

Potential energy is mathematically defined as P.E = mgh

Potential energy of body 1 = P.E${}_1$ = mgh${}_1$

Potential energy of body 2 = P.E${}_2$ = mgh${}_2$

Since weight of two bodies are equal,

Therefore $\frac{P.E_1}{P.E_2}$ = $\frac{h}{1.5h}$ = $\frac{2}{3}$

Hence the ratio of their P.E is 2:3