Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator

Our Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator helps you find the energy stored in an object due to its position in a gravitational field. You’ll get instant results with clear steps and explanations. This tool is perfect for students, teachers, and anyone learning physics the easy way.

What Is Gravitational Potential Energy?

Gravitational potential energy (GPE) is the energy an object has because of its height above the ground. When you lift something, you give it energy that it can release when it falls. The higher the object or the heavier it is, the more energy it stores.

In simple terms, gravitational potential energy tells you how much work gravity can do if an object falls.

Gravitational Potential Energy Formula

The formula to calculate gravitational potential energy is:

PE = m × g × h

Where:

• PE = Gravitational Potential Energy (Joules)
• m = Mass of the object (kg)
• g = Acceleration due to gravity (m/s²)
• h = Height above the ground (m)

This formula shows that potential energy increases when you increase mass, gravity, or height.

For example:

If a 3 kg object is at a height of 5 meters on Earth, where g = 9.81 m/s², then:

PE = 3 × 9.81 × 5 = 147.15 Joules

That means the object has 147.15 J of potential energy.

How Do You Calculate Gravitational Potential Energy?

To calculate gravitational potential energy manually, follow three simple steps:

1. Identify the mass, gravity, and height.
2. Multiply mass by gravity and then by height.
3. The result is the energy in Joules (J).

It’s that simple! But if you want to skip the math, our calculator does it all for you automatically including unit conversions and detailed steps.

How to Use the Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator

1. Enter the mass of the object.
2. Choose the correct mass unit (kg, g, lb, etc.).
3. Enter the height and select its unit (m, cm, ft, etc.).
4. Pick a planet or enter a custom gravity value.
5. Select the output energy unit (J, kJ, cal, etc.).
6. Click Calculate to get instant results.

The calculator will show step-by-step conversions and the final energy value in your chosen unit. It’s quick, accurate, and ideal for both classroom and home use.

Why This Calculator Is So Helpful

Physics can sound tough, but this tool makes it easy. It handles all unit conversions and shows you every step of the process. You can use it to compare potential energy on different planets for example, see how much more energy an object has on Jupiter than on the Moon.

Final Verdict

Our Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator is designed to make learning physics fun and simple. Whether you’re solving a homework question or exploring how gravity works across the solar system, you’ll love how easy it is to use. It gives accurate results, step-by-step explanations, and supports multiple units and planets.

So, next time you wonder “How is gravitational PE calculated?” just use this calculator. You’ll get your answer in seconds.

FAQs

How do you calculate gravitational potential energy?

Use the formula PE = m × g × h, where you multiply mass, gravity, and height.

What unit is used for gravitational potential energy?

The SI unit of GPE is the Joule (J).

What is the gravitational potential energy of a 5 kg object at 10 m height on Earth?

PE = 5 × 9.81 × 10 = 490.5 J.

Does gravitational potential energy change on other planets?

Yes, it changes because the gravity value (g) differs from planet to planet.

What’s the difference between potential and kinetic energy?

Potential energy is stored energy due to position. Kinetic energy is energy in motion.