Hiker A has a body mass of 60 kg and carries a 10-kg pack. Hiker B has a body mass of 70 kg and carries a 20-kg pack. At the top of the mountain they’re climbing, which hiker has the most gravitational potential energy?
Answer
A
Hiker A has the most gravitational potential energy.
B
Hiker B has the most gravitational potential energy.
C
They have the same gravitational potential energy.
D
There is not enough information to know.
Explanation
Gravitational potential energy is mgh. Since both hikers are at the same height, compare their combined masses: Hiker A and pack total 60 + 10 = 70 kg, while Hiker B and pack total 70 + 20 = 90 kg. Hiker B therefore has more gravitational potential energy.
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