The correct option is (c).
Explanation
Mechanical energy is broadly classified into Potential Energy (PE) and Kinetic Energy (KE). Potential Energy is the stored energy of an object determined by its position relative to other objects or its internal configuration, whereas Kinetic Energy is the energy associated with the motion of an object.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Potential Energy is defined as the energy possessed by a body by virtue of its specific position (e.g., water stored in a dam) or configuration (e.g., a compressed spring). It represents the work done against conservative forces to achieve that position or configuration.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: A speeding car is in motion; therefore, the primary form of energy it possesses is Kinetic Energy. Kinetic Energy is defined by the formula \( KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2 \), where \( v \) is the velocity. While a car may have potential energy if it is at an elevation, the act of "speeding" specifically refers to motion, which characterizes Kinetic Energy, not Potential Energy.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The gravitational potential energy of an object raised to a height \( h \) is given by the formula \( PE = mgh \), where \( m \) is the mass of the object and \( g \) is the acceleration due to gravity. Thus, the value of potential energy is directly dependent on the acceleration due to gravity.
Key Takeaway:
Potential Energy is stored energy resulting from position or configuration (dependent on height and gravity in the gravitational context), while Kinetic Energy is the energy of motion.