Alex and Kaylee ascend a mountain on two different trails: Alex via a short, steep trail and Kaylee via a long, gentle trail. Which of the following statements is true?
A) To compare gravitational energies one should know the height of the mountain.
B) To compare gravitational energies one should know how the lengths of the two trails compare.
C) Alex gains more gravitational energy than Kaylee.
D) Alex gains the same gravitational energy as Kaylee.
E) Alex gains less gravitational energy than Kaylee.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gravitational energy depends on the height gained, not the path taken. Both Alex and Kaylee reach the same height, thus gaining the same gravitational energy.

Alex and Kaylee Ascend a Mountain on Two Different Trails