Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator
Calculate gravitational potential energy relative to a reference height in a uniform gravitational field.
Formula
U = mgh; h is signed height above the zero level.
Mass: 2 kg · Gravitational acceleration: 9.81 m/s² · Potential energy ≈ (2 kg)×(9.81 m/s²)×(5)
How to use
- Enter mass and signed reference height.
- Enter local gravitational acceleration.
- Read potential energy relative to your zero level.
Examples
- 2 kg at 5 m with g = 9.81 m/s² has U = 98.1 J.
Frequently asked questions
Can potential energy be negative?
Yes. A negative height lies below the chosen zero.
Why can gravity be changed?
Local gravity varies; 9.81 m/s² is an Earth example, not a universal value.
Does this work for orbital height changes?
Not over large distances where gravity changes appreciably; use the inverse-distance gravitational potential.
Sources
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