What does gravitational potential energy depend on?

Gravitational potential energy is defined as the energy stored in an object due to its position in a gravitational field, typically near the Earth's surface. The formula used to calculate gravitational potential energy is (PE = mgh), where (PE) represents potential energy, (m) is the mass of the object, (g) is the acceleration due to gravity, and (h) is the height of the object above a reference point.

From this formula, it is clear that both the mass of the object and its height above the reference level directly contribute to the amount of gravitational potential energy it possesses. A heavier object will have more potential energy than a lighter object at the same height. Similarly, an object raised to a higher position will have more potential energy than when it is lower, provided the mass remains constant. Therefore, gravitational potential energy depends on both the mass and height of the object, making this response the most accurate representation of how potential energy is determined in relation to gravitational fields.