Potential Energy

Calculate gravitational potential energy near a reference level.

How this calculator works

Enter the values for first value, second value and review the units before calculating.

Formula / method

PE = mgh

Worked example

10 kg raised 5 m in standard gravity stores about 490.33 J.

Assumptions and limitations

The field is near Earth’s surface and gravitational acceleration is constant.

The reference level is arbitrary and the formula is not for large altitude changes or strong gravity.

Sources and methodology references