⚡ Potential Energy Calculator
Calculate gravitational potential energy
How to Use This Calculator
Enter Object Mass
Input the mass of the object in kilograms (kg). This is the amount of matter in the object. For example, a person might be 70 kg, a book 2 kg, or a water bottle 0.5 kg.
Enter Height
Enter the height above the reference point in meters (m). This is the vertical distance from the ground or reference level. For example, a table might be 0.8 m high, a building floor 3 m, or a cliff 100 m.
Enter Gravity (Optional)
Enter the gravitational acceleration in m/s². The default is 9.81 m/s² (Earth's gravity). For other planets or locations, use different values: Moon = 1.62 m/s², Mars = 3.71 m/s², Jupiter = 24.79 m/s².
Calculate Potential Energy
Click the "Calculate Potential Energy" button to compute the gravitational potential energy. The calculator uses PE = mgh to determine the stored energy due to position.
About Potential Energy Calculator
The Potential Energy Calculator computes the gravitational potential energy of an object based on its mass, height, and the gravitational acceleration. Gravitational potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position in a gravitational field and represents the work done to lift the object against gravity.
When to Use This Calculator
- Physics Homework: Solve gravitational potential energy problems
- Engineering Design: Calculate energy storage in elevated systems
- Energy Analysis: Determine potential energy in hydroelectric dams or water towers
- Astronomical Calculations: Calculate potential energy for objects on different planets
- Educational Purposes: Learn about potential energy and its relationship to height
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Customizable Gravity: Works for Earth, Moon, Mars, and other celestial bodies
- ✅ Step-by-Step Formula: Shows the calculation process
- ✅ Accurate Calculations: Uses the standard physics formula
- ✅ Instant Results: Get answers immediately
- ✅ Free to Use: No registration or payment required
Understanding Potential Energy
Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object has due to its position in a gravitational field. It's calculated as PE = mgh, where the energy is directly proportional to mass, gravitational acceleration, and height. When an object falls, this potential energy is converted to kinetic energy. The reference point (usually ground level) is where potential energy is defined as zero—heights are measured relative to this point. Potential energy is measured in Joules (J), the same unit as kinetic energy.
Formula
PE = mgh
Where:
- PE = Gravitational Potential Energy (Joules)
- m = Mass (kilograms)
- g = Gravitational Acceleration (m/s², default 9.81 m/s² for Earth)
- h = Height above reference point (meters)
Example Calculation:
For an object with mass = 10 kg, height = 5 m, and gravity = 9.81 m/s²:
PE = 10 × 9.81 × 5
PE = 490.5 J
Important Note: The reference point (where h = 0) is arbitrary but usually chosen as the ground or lowest point. Only differences in potential energy matter physically—the absolute value depends on your choice of reference point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gravitational potential energy?
Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object has due to its position in a gravitational field. It's calculated as PE = mgh and represents the work that would be done (or was done) to move the object to that position against gravity. When the object falls, this potential energy is converted to kinetic energy.
Can potential energy be negative?
Yes, potential energy can be negative depending on your choice of reference point. If you set the reference point (where PE = 0) at a height above the object, then the object's potential energy will be negative. However, only differences in potential energy have physical meaning—the absolute value depends on where you define zero.
What is the difference between potential energy and kinetic energy?
Potential energy is stored energy due to position (PE = mgh), while kinetic energy is energy of motion (KE = ½mv²). They can be converted into each other: a falling object loses potential energy and gains kinetic energy. In a closed system, the total mechanical energy (PE + KE) is conserved.
How does gravity on other planets affect potential energy?
Gravity affects potential energy through the 'g' term in PE = mgh. On the Moon (g = 1.62 m/s²), an object has less potential energy at the same height than on Earth. On Jupiter (g = 24.79 m/s²), the same object would have much more potential energy. The calculator allows you to change the gravity value for different planets or locations.
Why is the reference point important?
The reference point (where h = 0 and PE = 0) is arbitrary but important for calculating absolute values. However, only differences in potential energy matter physically. For example, the energy released when an object falls from 10 m to 5 m is the same regardless of whether you measure from ground level or sea level. Choose a convenient reference point for your calculations.