Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator
Calculate gravitational potential energy (PE = m·g·h) in joules for any mass, height, and gravity.
How it works
- 1Enter the mass, the height above the reference point, and the gravitational acceleration g (default 9.80665 m/s² for Earth).
- 2The calculator converts all inputs to SI units (kg, m, m/s²) and evaluates PE = m·g·h.
- 3Results are shown in joules (J) and kilojoules (kJ). Switch the toggle to enter pounds and feet.
Use cases
- Determine how much energy a roller-coaster car gains or loses between two heights.
- Estimate the potential energy stored in a raised water reservoir for hydroelectric calculations.
- Solve physics problems involving objects dropped from a known height.
Frequently asked questions
What is the formula for gravitational potential energy?
PE = m·g·h, where m is mass in kilograms, g is gravitational acceleration (9.80665 m/s² on Earth), and h is height in metres. The result is in joules (J).
What does “reference height” mean for potential energy?
Potential energy has no absolute zero — it is measured relative to a chosen baseline. Only differences in PE matter physically. You can set h = 0 at the ground, a tabletop, or any convenient level; what counts is the change in height.
Can you show a worked example?
A 2 kg book raised 10 m above the floor: PE = 2 × 9.80665 × 10 ≈ 196 J. If it then falls back, that 196 J converts to kinetic energy (ignoring air resistance), reaching about 14 m/s at impact.
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