Potential Energy Calculator
Calculate gravitational potential energy using the formula PE = mgh. Find energy in Joules, foot-pounds, and other units.
Potential Energy (PE)
Input Values
Conversion to Other Units
Step-by-Step Solution
Enter mass, height, and gravity, then click "Calculate" to see the step-by-step solution.
Potential Energy Formula
PE = m × g × h
Where:
- m = mass (kg)
- g = gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²)
- h = height (m)
- PE = Potential Energy (Joules)
Real-World Examples
- 10 kg at 5 m: 490.5 J
- 70 kg person at 10 m: 6,867 J
- 1000 kg car at 20 m: 196,200 J
- 1 kg book at 1 m: 9.81 J
Energy Conversions
- 1 Joule = 0.239 cal
- 1 Joule = 6.242 × 10¹⁸ eV
- 1 Joule = 0.7376 ft·lb
- 1 kWh = 3.6 × 10⁶ J
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gravitational potential energy?
Gravitational potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position relative to a reference point (usually the ground). The higher the object, the more potential energy it has. The formula is PE = mgh.
How do you calculate potential energy?
Step 1: Convert mass to kg (if needed)
Step 2: Convert height to meters (if needed)
Step 3: Multiply: mass × gravity × height
Step 4: Result is in Joules
What is the potential energy of a 10 kg object at 5 m?
PE = 10 kg × 9.81 m/s² × 5 m = 490.5 Joules. This is equivalent to about 117 calories or 361.8 foot-pounds.
Does potential energy depend on path?
No, gravitational potential energy depends only on height, not the path taken. This is why it's called a conservative force. Whether you go straight up or take a winding path, the potential energy at the same height is identical.
What is the reference point for potential energy?
Potential energy is always measured relative to a reference point. Usually, we use ground level (h=0) as the reference, but any consistent point can be used. Only differences in potential energy matter physically.
How much potential energy does a 70 kg person have on a 10 m diving board?
PE = 70 kg × 9.81 m/s² × 10 m = 6,867 Joules. This would convert to kinetic energy when diving, resulting in a speed of about 14 m/s (31 mph) just before hitting the water.