Potential Energy Calculator (PE = mgh)
Calculate gravitational potential energy PE = mgh. Enter mass, gravitational acceleration and height to get potential energy in Joules.
How to use this tool
- Enter mass, gravitational acceleration and height in the fields above.
- Results update instantly as you type — or click Calculate.
- Read your potential energy and the full breakdown beneath it.
Gravitational potential energy is the energy stored by lifting an object: PE = mgh, where m is mass (kg), g is gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s² on Earth), and h is height (m). On the Moon use g = 1.62 m/s².
Frequently asked questions
- What is the reference height?
- PE is always relative to a chosen reference (usually the ground). Only differences in PE matter for energy calculations.
- How is PE related to KE?
- In a frictionless fall, PE converts entirely to KE: mgh = ½mv², giving v = √(2gh) at impact.