Which one of these graphs shows the relationship between the gravitational potential energy (gpe) of the balls and their mass when they are all at the same height? Put a cross (✗) in the box next to your answer - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 3 - 2015 - Paper 1

To determine the relationship between gravitational potential energy (gpe) and mass, we use the formula for gravitational potential energy:

$gpe = mgh$

Here, $m$ represents the mass, $g$ is the acceleration due to gravity, and $h$ is the height. Since $g$ and $h$ are constant (as all balls are dropped from the same height), the relationship shows that gpe is directly proportional to mass.

Thus, as the mass increases, the gpe should also increase linearly. In the graphs provided:

• Graph A shows a linear increase of gpe with an increase in mass, which reflects this relationship accurately.

Therefore, the correct answer is Graph A.