Which equation represents potential energy?

The equation that represents potential energy is indeed M x G x H. This formula calculates gravitational potential energy, where M stands for mass, G represents the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.81 m/s² on Earth), and H is the height above the reference point.

This formula reflects the concept that potential energy is directly proportional to both the mass of the object and the height it is elevated. The greater the mass or the higher the object is positioned, the more potential energy it possesses. This is particularly relevant in physics, where it is essential to understand how energy is conserved and transformed in various systems.

The other choices reflect different concepts in physics. The equation 1/2 x M x V² calculates kinetic energy, which is the energy an object has due to its motion. Force x Distance represents work done when a force moves an object through a distance. The expression M x V relates mass and velocity but does not characterize a type of energy; in fact, it represents momentum in physics. Each of these equations serves its own purpose within the realm of mechanics, but for potential energy specifically, M x G x H is the defining equation.