Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator
Enter mass and height to compute gravitational potential energy U = m·g·h.
Input Data
Results
At a glance:Gravitational potential energy near Earth's surface is U = m·g·h, with m mass, g ≈ 9.81 m/s² and h the height above a reference level. It is the work needed to lift the object: W = ∫F·dh = m·g·h. In energy conservation, U converts to kinetic energy as the object falls (mgh = ½mv² when dropped from rest). More generally, for two masses, U = −G·M·m/r (with zero at infinity). This tool uses the uniform-field form and reports U in J and kJ.
Formula
U = m·g·h
Energy conservation: m·g·h = ½·m·v²
$$PE = m\,g\,h$$How to Use
- Enter mass m (kg).
- Enter height h (m) and gravity g (m/s²).
- The calculator returns U in J and kJ.
Case Studies
Hydro storage
m = 1000 kg, h = 50 m, g = 9.81.
U = 1000×9.81×50 = 490500 J ≈ 0.49 MJ.
Released as KE/turbine power when dropped.
FAQ
Does the reference height matter?
Only differences in U matter physically; you can set h=0 anywhere. This tool uses height above the chosen reference (e.g. ground).
What if height is huge?
Then g is no longer constant and you must use U = −GMm/r with the general gravitational formula.
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References
Content review: Calculatorism Science Team. Results are for reference only; please refer to the relevant authorities for the official figures.