Potential Energy Calculator
Potential energy calculator
Compute gravitational potential energy (PE = mgh).
Result
196.133 J
Uses PE = mgh.
Physics signal
Advanced options
Formula
PE = m x g x h Symbol legend
| Symbol | Meaning | Unit | Copy |
|---|---|---|---|
PE | Potential energy | J | |
m | Mass | kg | |
g | Gravitational acceleration | m/s^2 | |
h | Height relative to reference | m |
- Enter mass and height above reference level.
- Use local gravity value or standard 9.80665 m/s^2.
- Multiply m, g, and h to get potential energy.
Example
Worked example: 2 kg lifted by 10 m
- 1 m = 2
- 2 g = 9.8
- 3 h = 10
- 4 PE = 2 x 9.8 x 10 = 196
Potential energy is 196 J.
How
- Enter mass in kilograms.
- Enter height in meters and optional gravity value.
- Read potential energy in joules.
Avoid
- Using negative mass values.
- Confusing potential energy with kinetic energy formulas.
- Mixing centimeters with meters for height.
Checks
Best fit
Potential Energy Calculator is built for calculate gravitational potential energy with pe = mgh using configurable gravity and height inputs. If Potential Energy Calculator does not match the input scope, compare the answer with a second method.
Input check
Check PE before calculating: it means potential energy and is measured in J.
Sanity check
For Potential Energy Calculator, use the worked example as a quick benchmark: Potential energy is 196 J. If the potential energy calculator answer is far away, check whether an input, unit, or mode changed.
Before copying
Review this common issue first: using negative mass values.
FAQ
Can I change gravity for other planets?
Yes, you can enter a different gravity value in the input.
Why does zero height give zero potential energy?
Potential energy is relative to the chosen reference level.
Does this include air resistance losses?
No, this is the ideal gravitational potential energy relation.
Switch
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No match.