Kinetic Energy Calculator
Energy of motion.
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Science
Potential Energy Calculator
Find gravitational potential energy from mass, height and gravity.
Potential energy
—
Joules.
| Mass | — |
|---|---|
| Height | — |
| Gravity | — |
| — |
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How the Potential Energy Calculator Works
Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object has because of its height. It equals mass times the acceleration of gravity times height. Lift a 10-kilogram object 5 meters and it gains about 490 joules — energy that converts back to motion if it falls.
On Earth gravity is about 9.81 m/s². Use kilograms and meters and the answer comes out in joules. Potential energy is measured relative to a reference height, usually the ground or the lowest point in the problem.
PE = mass × gravity × height
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you calculate potential energy?
Multiply mass (kg) by gravity (9.81 m/s² on Earth) by height (m). The result is gravitational potential energy in joules.
What is the value of g?
About 9.81 m/s² at Earth’s surface. It’s smaller on the Moon (1.62) and larger on Jupiter, which changes the potential energy.
Potential energy relative to what?
A reference point you choose, usually the ground. Only differences in height matter for the energy released or stored.
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