Physics

Gravitational Potential Energy

Formula

PE = m × g × h

What is Gravitational Potential Energy?

Gravitational potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its height above the ground. It depends on mass, gravitational acceleration, and height.

Variables

P
PE — Potential energy (in Joules)
m
m — Mass (in kilograms)
g
g — Gravitational acceleration (9.8 m/s² on Earth)
h
h — Height above ground (in meters)

Worked Examples

Example 1

Find the potential energy of a 3 kg object at a height of 5 meters.

Solution:

PE = 3 × 9.8 × 5 = 147 Joules

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Formulas

Newton's Second Law

F = m × a

KE = ½ × m × v²

V = I × R

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