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Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object has because of its height. Lifting a mass m through a height h stores energy PE = mgh. This calculator works it out in joules.
If the object falls, that energy turns into kinetic energy. Ignoring air resistance, it reaches a speed of √(2gh) at the bottom, which the calculator also shows.
| Mass (m) | 10 kg |
| Height (h) | 2 m |
| Potential energy (J) | 196.133 |
| Potential energy (kJ) | 0.196133 |
| Speed if it fell this height (m/s) | 6.26311 |
The box gains 196.133 J of potential energy.
Try this example →| Mass (m) | 1,000 kg |
| Height (h) | 100 m |
| Potential energy (J) | 980,665 |
| Potential energy (kJ) | 980.665 |
| Speed if it fell this height (m/s) | 44.2869 |
Each tonne of water 100 m up stores 980.665 kJ, which a hydro plant turns into electricity.
Try this example →At the top of a swing the energy is all potential; at the bottom it is all kinetic. In between it is a mix. Without friction, PE + KE stays the same throughout.
Gravitational potential energy PE = mgh, in joules.
The joule (J). 1 J = 1 kg·m²/s².
No. Only the change in height matters, not the route.
Energy stored in a stretched or compressed spring, ½kx². See the Hooke's law calculator.