Potential Energy Calculator

Calculate gravitational potential energy using mass, height, and gravity

Input Values

Result

What is Potential Energy?

Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position relative to other objects. Gravitational potential energy depends on the mass of the object, its height above a reference point, and the gravitational acceleration.

Potential Energy Formula

The formula for gravitational potential energy is:

PE = m × g × h

Where:

  • PE = Potential Energy (Joules)
  • m = Mass (kg)
  • g = Gravitational acceleration (m/s²)
  • h = Height (m)

How to Use the Calculator

  1. Enter the mass of the object in kilograms
  2. Enter the height above the reference point in meters
  3. Select the gravitational acceleration (default is Earth's gravity: 9.81 m/s²)
  4. Click "Calculate" to get the potential energy
  5. View the step-by-step solution

Example Calculation

If a 5 kg object is lifted 10 meters above the ground on Earth:

PE = 5 kg × 9.81 m/s² × 10 m

PE = 5 × 9.81 × 10

PE = 490.5 Joules