Gravitational Potential Energy Calculations
Written by Adi Ackerman, Head Teacher
"Gravitational Potential Energy Calculations" is written for 7th Grade (Ages 12-13), and it covers NGSS MS-PS3-2. A 6th grader who is already steady on energy can use it too, and an older student can use it as a short review.
2 pages in this set
7th grade science worksheet: calculate gravitational potential energy in joules for a hiker, a drone and a crate on four ledges. Answer key included. Part of our kinetic and potential energy collection. Aligned to NGSS standards.
How do I use this worksheet?
Use the formula reminders at the top of each sheet and the worked examples. Assign the potential energy sheet and the kinetic energy sheet first, then the graph and hockey sheets to apply both ideas.
What students will practice
- Students will use PE = m × g × h with g = 10 N/kg to find energy in joules.
- Students will rearrange the formula to find the height of a climber or a goose.
- Students will find the change in potential energy when an object moves between ledges.
Curriculum Links
Next Generation Science Standards
Science · 7th Grade
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FAQ
How do I use this kinetic and potential energy worksheet?
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Use the formula reminders at the top of each sheet and the worked examples. Assign the potential energy sheet and the kinetic energy sheet first, then the graph and hockey sheets to apply both ideas.
What does this worksheet teach?
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Calculate gravitational potential energy in joules for a hiker, a drone and a crate on four ledges. The directions on the page read: Show the formula and numbers on the lines. Write each answer in joules. An answer key is included.
Can I use this kinetic and potential energy worksheet for homeschool or classroom?
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Yes, both. We made it for 7th grade energy, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.
What is the formula for gravitational potential energy?
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PE = m × g × h, with mass in kilograms, height in meters and g = 10 N/kg. The answer is in joules. A 4 kg rock on a 3 m wall has 120 J.
Why is speed squared in the kinetic energy formula?
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Kinetic energy depends on the square of the speed, so doubling the speed makes the energy four times as large. Students square the speed first and then multiply. Graph How Speed Changes Kinetic Energy shows the curve.
How do you find speed or mass from kinetic energy?
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Rearrange the formula. Mass is 2 × KE ÷ v squared, and v squared is 2 × KE ÷ m, then students find the square root in a table.
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