Question

Two paths lead to the top of a hill. The first path is short and steep. The second path is longer and less steeper. The gain in potential energy is more for which path?

• A. Path I
• B. Path II
• C. Same for both the paths
• D. Data insufficient

Answer 1

The correct option is C Same for both the paths

Change in gravitational potential energy does not depend on the path taken. It depends only on the vertical displacement (i.e. change in height) of the body.

Here, the gain in the potential energy for both the paths will be the same as the height of the hill remains constant.