Formula and method
ΔU = mgh, where height is measured relative to the chosen zero level.
Worked example
Raising 10 kg by 5 m with g = 9.80665 m/s² changes potential energy by 490.3325 J.
Potential Energy Calculator
Calculate gravitational potential-energy difference from mass, signed height and a uniform gravitational acceleration.
Printed from Calxy · https://www.calxy.net/other/potential-energy-calculator
Gravitational potential-energy difference490.3325 J
kg
0 – 1000000000000000
m
-1000000000 – 1000000000000000
m/s²
0 – 1000000000000000
Gravitational potential-energy difference
490.3325 J
Assumes a uniform gravitational field. Negative height gives negative potential energy relative to the chosen zero; orbital distances need a different model.
How this was calculated
ΔU = mgh, where h is the signed height relative to the chosen reference.
Frequently asked questions
Can potential energy be negative?
Yes. A negative height gives negative potential energy relative to the selected reference. Differences in potential energy are what matter physically.
Last updated . Results are estimates for informational purposes only.