College Physics (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32160-183-1
ISBN 13: 978-0-32160-183-4

Chapter 5 - Work and Energy - Learning Path Questions and Exercises - Conceptual Questions - Page 173: 13

Answer

Potential energy is defined with respect to a reference point. The choice is arbitrary. If the reference point is chosen to be on the table, then potential energy is zero, and if the reference is chosen on the ground, then the potential energy is positive. So, both students are correct.

Work Step by Step

Potential energy is defined with respect to a reference point. The choice is arbitrary. If the reference point is chosen to be on the table, then potential energy is zero, and if the reference is chosen on the ground, then the potential energy is positive. So, both students are correct.
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