Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator
Find the energy stored in an object raised to a height.
Your numbers
Your results
Potential energy (J)
Potential energy (J)
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Speed on reaching the ground (m/s)
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Energy (Wh)
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Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator by TheCalcTools
How the Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator works
Enter the mass, the height above the reference level and choose the gravity.
Potential energy is mass times gravity times height.
If the object falls freely, all of it becomes kinetic energy, giving the impact speed.
The formula
PE = m g hv = √(2 g h)
Worked example
Using the default values shown in the calculator:
| Mass (kg) | 10 |
|---|---|
| Height (m) | 5 |
| Gravity | Earth (9.807) |
- PE = 10 × 9.80665 × 5 = 490.33 J.
- Falling freely, the object hits the ground at 9.90 m/s.
Result:
| Potential energy (J) | 490.33 |
|---|---|
| Speed on reaching the ground (m/s) | 9.90 |
| Energy (Wh) | 0.1362 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the reference level?
Potential energy is relative. Height is measured from whatever level you choose, often the ground.
Does it matter how the object reaches the height?
No. Gravity is a conservative force, so only the height difference counts.
Sources and further reading
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This calculator gives estimates for information only. Check important results independently before you rely on them. See our disclaimer.