Potential Energy Calculator
Calculate gravitational potential energy from mass and height instantly with this free physics calculator in your browser.
Enter Values
Minimum 0
How to use this calculator
- Enter mass (kg) and height (m).
- Gravity defaults to 9.81 m/s² — change it if needed.
How it works
Gravitational potential energy = mass × gravity × height (PE = mgh).
Worked example
10 kg at 5 m. PE = 10 × 9.81 × 5 = 490.5 J.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting it's energy relative to a reference height (usually the ground).
- Using the wrong gravity for another planet — change the g value.
Frequently asked questions
How is gravitational potential energy calculated?
PE = mass × g × height, with g ≈ 9.81 m/s². Lifting 10 kg by 2 m stores 10 × 9.81 × 2 ≈ 196 J.
What is potential energy?
Stored energy due to position — here, height in a gravitational field — that can convert to kinetic energy when released.
What value of gravity should I use?
On Earth, about 9.81 m/s² (the default). For other planets, enter their surface gravity.
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Cite this tool
Zerdly. (2026). Potential Energy Calculator. Retrieved from https://www.zerdly.com/tools/potential-energy-calculator/
Tip: Enter any known values to calculate the remaining results.
All calculations run in your browser. Your inputs are never saved or transmitted.