Question

potential energy is the energy an object has because of its what?

Answer 1

Because of it's position or configuration.

Answer 2

For example :Gravitational PE= -GMm/r (depends on r- the position).
For a spring PE= 1/2k(x^2) (where x is the amount the spring is stretched- configuration)

Answer 3

When it is not moving or think of it like this when you climb a cliff when your on the top you have potential energy but as you climb down you are starting the state of kenetic energy. Therefor potential energy is when you are not moving. Or when energy is stored.