Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator

About this calculator

Gravitational potential energy near Earth's surface is given by PE = m·g·h, where m is the object's mass, g is the local gravitational acceleration (about 9.81 m/s² on Earth), and h is the height above a chosen reference level. It represents the work done against gravity to lift the object to that height, and by the work-energy theorem, it is exactly the kinetic energy the object would gain if allowed to fall freely back to the reference level.

Physics students use this formula to solve energy-conservation problems, while engineers apply it to size hydroelectric dams (where PE of stored water converts to electrical energy), design roller coasters and elevators, and calculate the energy released in falls or impacts for safety analysis. Sports scientists also use it to analyze activities like ski jumping and diving, where height converts directly into the kinetic energy of motion.