Potential Energy Calculator
Calculate gravitational potential energy from mass and height.
This tool is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional financial, medical, legal, or engineering advice. See Terms of Service.
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Enter the mass in kilograms and the height in meters. The calculator uses g = 9.81 m/s2 to compute the gravitational potential energy in joules.
About Potential Energy
Gravitational potential energy represents the work done against gravity to raise an object to a given height. Near Earth's surface, it is calculated as PE = mgh, where g = 9.81 m/s2. This energy is stored and can be converted to kinetic energy when the object falls. Potential energy is fundamental to understanding roller coasters, hydroelectric dams, pendulums, and any system where height changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gravitational potential energy?
Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. Near Earth's surface, it equals mass times gravitational acceleration times height: PE = mgh.
What reference point is used for height?
Height is measured relative to a chosen reference point (usually ground level). Potential energy is always relative, and only changes in potential energy are physically meaningful.
How does potential energy relate to kinetic energy?
As an object falls, potential energy converts to kinetic energy. At any point, the total mechanical energy (PE + KE) is conserved (ignoring friction). An object dropped from height h reaches velocity v = sqrt(2gh) at ground level.