The gravitational potential energy (GPE) is given by the formula:
\[
U = mgh
\]
Where:
- \( m = 2 \, \text{kg} \) is the mass of the object,
- \( g = 9.8 \, \text{m/s}^2 \) is the acceleration due to gravity,
- \( h = 5 \, \text{m} \) is the height above the surface.
Now, calculate the potential energy:
\[
U = 2 \times 9.8 \times 5 = 100 \, \text{J}
\]
Thus, the gravitational potential energy is \( 100 \, \text{J} \).