How it works
Potential energy relative to the chosen reference: E = mgh, in joules.
Input definitions
- Mass (kg)
- Enter the value in the labeled unit.
- Height above reference (m)
- Enter the value in the labeled unit.
- Gravitational acceleration (m/s²)
- Enter the value in the labeled unit.
A worked example
- Mass (kg)
- 2
- Height above reference (m)
- 3
- Gravitational acceleration (m/s²)
- 9.80665
Assumptions & limits
Uniform gravitational field. Signed height gives signed energy relative to the reference, not absolute energy.
Sources & review
Maintained by AnsRio. Methods and examples use automated checks; this does not imply independent professional certification.
Method updated 2026-10-17. Content checked against the stated method and examples. Our verification approach.
Common questions
Can gravitational potential energy be negative?
Yes. Height is measured relative to your chosen zero level. A point below that reference has negative mgh in this constant-gravity model.
Which units should I enter?
Use the units written in each input label. These formulas assume idealized conditions; changing to centimetres, litres or kilopascals without conversion changes the meaning of the result.
How does the Gravitational potential energy tool work?
Potential energy relative to the chosen reference: E = mgh, in joules.
What are the assumptions and limits of Gravitational potential energy?
Uniform gravitational field. Signed height gives signed energy relative to the reference, not absolute energy.