# A student wants to estimate the gravitational potential energy stored in a full can of fizzy drink when it is placed on a shelf. Explain how the student could arrive at a reasonable estimate, including a final numerical estimate with appropriate units.

> AQA A-Level Physics (7408) — 3.1.3 Estimation of Physical Quantities · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Identifies that gravitational potential energy = mass × gravitational field strength × height (GPE = mgh)
2. Gives a reasonable estimate for the mass of a full can of drink (approximately 0.33–0.40 kg)
3. Gives a reasonable estimate for the height of the shelf above the floor (approximately 0.5–2.0 m)
4. Uses g = 10 N/kg (or 9.8 N/kg) correctly in their calculation
5. Arrives at a final numerical estimate consistent with their chosen values, stated in joules (approximately 0.5–8 J for sensible inputs)

## Key terms

- [gravitational potential energy](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/gravitational-potential-energy)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Physics (7408)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-student-wants-to-estimate-the-12787776) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.