Which type of energy is considered stored energy in the context of gravitational fields?

• A. $\text{Electrical Energy}$
• B. $\text{Kinetic Energy}$
• C. $\text{Thermal Energy}$
• D. $\text{Gravitational Potential Energy}$

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the concept of energy in physics. Energy is the capacity to do work, and it can exist in various forms such as kinetic, potential, thermal, electrical, etc.
2. Identify the context of the problem, which is gravitational fields. Gravitational fields are regions of space around a mass where another mass experiences a force due to gravity.
3. Recognize that stored energy in a gravitational field is related to the position of an object within that field. This type of energy is known as potential energy.
4. Differentiate between the types of energy listed: Electrical energy is associated with electric fields and charges, kinetic energy is related to the motion of objects, and thermal energy is related to the temperature of a system.
5. Conclude that gravitational potential energy is the correct type of stored energy in the context of gravitational fields. It is the energy an object possesses due to its position relative to a source of gravitational force, typically calculated using the formula: $U=mgh$, where $m$ is mass, $g$ is the acceleration due to gravity, and $h$ is the height above a reference point.