Potential Energy Calculator
heightParameters
energy_savings_leafPotential Energy
Understanding Potential Energy (GPE)
Potential Energy is the "stored" energy an object has because of its position or state. The most common form in physics problems is Gravitational Potential Energy (GPE), which depends on how high an object is lifted against gravity. Our Potential Energy Calculator solves for Joules instantly using the standard formula.
The Formula: PE = mgh
- Mass (m): Must be in Kilograms (kg).
- Gravity (g): Acceleration due to gravity. On Earth, this is roughly 9.81 m/sĀ².
- Height (h): Determines how much energy is stored. Must be in Meters (m).
Example Calculation
If you lift a 10 kg box to a shelf 2 meters high:
PE = 10 kg Ć 9.81 m/sĀ² Ć 2 m = 196.2 Joules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to potential energy when an object falls?
As an object falls, its Potential Energy is converted into Kinetic Energy (motion). Just before it hits the ground, PE is zero and Kinetic Energy is at its maximum.
Can potential energy be negative?
Yes, potential energy is relative to a reference point (usually the ground). If an object is in a hole below ground level, it can be considered to have negative gravitational potential energy relative to the surface.