Two paths lead to the top of a hill. One is shorter and steeper and the second one is longer but less steep. The gain in potential energy is more for which of the two paths?
Same for both the paths
Gain or loss of potential energy doesn’t depend on the path taken. It depends on the total height or displacement of the body. Potential energy for both the paths are the same as the height of the hill remains constant, irrespective of the path.