Potential Energy Calculator
Enter mass, height, and gravitational acceleration to calculate gravitational potential energy (PE=mgh)
📊 Result Chart
About Potential Energy Calculator
Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position at a certain height, equal to mass times gravitational acceleration times height (PE=mgh). It is an important component of mechanical energy, widely used in free fall, roller coaster design, and hydroelectric power. This tool helps physics enthusiasts and students quickly calculate potential energy.
How to Use
- Enter the mass of the object (kg)
- Enter the height above reference (m)
- Select or enter gravitational acceleration (default 9.8m/s²)
Related Tools
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- Force Calculator — Newton's Second Law F=ma
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What is the formula for gravitational potential energy?
Gravitational potential energy PE=mgh, where m is mass (kg), g is gravitational acceleration (~9.8m/s²), and h is height (m). The unit is joules (J).
Can potential energy and kinetic energy convert into each other?
Yes. According to the law of conservation of mechanical energy, when only gravity does work, the sum of potential and kinetic energy remains constant. Potential converts to kinetic when falling, and vice versa when rising.
Is gravitational potential energy the same on different planets?
No, because gravitational acceleration g varies. On the Moon g≈1.62m/s², about 1/6 of Earth's, so an object of the same mass and height has only about 1/6 the potential energy.