Potential Energy Calculation for a Weight Lifter

How is the potential energy gain of a barbell calculated when it is lifted by a weight lifter?

The potential energy gain of an object, such as a barbell, when it is lifted to a certain height is calculated using the formula for potential energy, which is Potential Energy = mass x gravity x height. In this case, we are looking at a weight lifter raising a 90 kg barbell to a height of 1.9 m. Let's dive into the calculation!

Potential Energy Calculation Formula

The formula for potential energy is:

Potential Energy = mass x gravity x height

Calculation for the 90 kg Barbell

Given values: Mass (m) = 90 kg Gravity (g) = 9.8 m/s² Height (h) = 1.9 m Substitute the values into the formula:

Potential Energy = 90 kg x 9.8 m/s² x 1.9 m

After performing the multiplication: Potential Energy = 1670.6 Joules

Final Answer

Therefore, the potential energy gain of the 90 kg barbell that is lifted to a height of 1.9 m by the weight lifter is calculated to be 1670.6 Joules. This calculation demonstrates how potential energy can be determined based on the mass of an object, the acceleration due to gravity, and the height it is lifted to. Understanding and calculating potential energy is essential in various fields of physics and engineering.
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