The accompanying photo shows a pipevine swallowtail caterpillar climbing up a twig. (a) As the caterpillar climbs, its potential energy is increasing. What source of energy has been used to effect this change in potential energy?

Key Concepts

Potential Energy

Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration. In the case of the caterpillar climbing a twig, its height above the ground increases, which raises its gravitational potential energy. This energy can be converted into kinetic energy when the caterpillar moves downward.

Energy Transformation

Energy transformation refers to the process of changing energy from one form to another. In this scenario, the caterpillar converts chemical energy from the food it consumes into mechanical energy, allowing it to climb. This transformation is essential for the caterpillar to gain height and increase its potential energy.

Gravitational Force

Gravitational force is the attractive force between two masses, such as the Earth and the caterpillar. As the caterpillar climbs, it works against this force, which requires energy. The increase in potential energy is a direct result of the caterpillar's position relative to the gravitational pull of the Earth.