Question

Two paths lead to the top of a hill. Path I is shorter and steeper and path II is longer but less steep. For which of the two paths is the gain in potential energy more?

• A. Path I
• B. Path II
• C. Same for both the paths
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Same for both the paths

Potential energy (PE) is given by $PE=mgh$
Where $m=$ mass of the body
$g=$ acceleration due to gravity
$h=$ height
Gain or loss of potential energy doesn’t depend on path. It depends on the total height or displacement of the body. Potential energy for both the paths will be the same as the height of the hill remains constant, irrespective of the path.