A0.0780 kg lemming runs off a 5.36 m high cliff at 4.84 m/s. What is its potential energy (PE) when it jumps?

Answer 1

Potential Energy (E_P) equals mass times height times "g" the acceleration due to gravity (9.81 m/s²) so E_P = (0.0780)(9.81)(5.36) = 4.10 Joules. Note that the lemming's velocity of 4.84 does not change its Potential Energy. although it DOES change the lemming's TOTAL energy.