What does potential energy depend on?

Potential energy is energy stored in an object based on its position or composition relative to other objects or forces. For example, gravitational potential energy depends on an object's height above the ground, its mass, and the gravitational force acting on it. This means that the higher an object is positioned and the greater its mass, the more potential energy it possesses. Similarly, in the case of other types of potential energy, such as elastic potential energy in a compressed spring, the energy stored is related to its configuration or shape.

While mass does play a role in determining potential energy, it is not the sole factor, as seen in the definition. Motion primarily relates to kinetic energy, which is distinct from potential energy. Temperature, while it can affect energy in a broader sense, does not directly influence the potential energy associated with an object's position or state. Thus, the comprehensive nature of potential energy includes aspects of an object's arrangement and position in a force field, establishing why the correct answer emphasizes the position or composition of an object.