Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator
Calculate gravitational potential energy from mass, height and gravity using PE = m·g·h.
How it works
PE = m · g · h
Gravitational potential energy is the energy stored in an object because of its height in a gravitational field. Raise an object and you do work against gravity; that work is stored as potential energy and released if it falls. It grows linearly with mass, gravity and height.
Worked example
A 10 kg mass lifted 5 m on Earth stores PE = 10 × 9.80665 × 5 ≈ 490.3 J.
Frequently asked questions
What is the reference height?
Potential energy is always measured relative to a chosen zero level, usually the ground or a table top. Only differences in height matter for the energy released.
Does gravity change the answer?
Yes. On the Moon g is about 1.62 m/s², so the same lift stores roughly one sixth of the energy it would on Earth. Change the gravity field to model other bodies.
How does this relate to kinetic energy?
If the object falls freely, its potential energy converts to kinetic energy. At the bottom, ½·m·v² equals the potential energy it started with (ignoring air resistance).
Related calculators
Educational estimate. Check the formula and units for your exact case.