What is potential energy?
Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position in a force field. Gravitational potential energy depends on height above a reference point.
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9.81 for Earth
For kinetic energy
Results
98.10 J
Potential Energy
0.00 J
Kinetic Energy
98.10 J
Total Energy
Energy Analysis
Understanding potential energy relationships
Potential Energy
At a height of 10m, the object has 98.10 Joules of stored energy. This energy can be converted into kinetic energy if the object falls.
Kinetic Energy
With a velocity of 0 m/s, the object has 0.00 Joules of motion energy.
Total Mechanical Energy
The total mechanical energy (PE + KE) is 98.10 Joules. In a closed system without friction, this value remains constant.
How to Use
Step-by-step instructions
- 1Enter the mass of the object in kilograms
- 2Input the height of the object above the reference point
- 3Set the gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s^2 for Earth)
- 4Enter the velocity for kinetic energy calculations
- 5Review the calculated potential energy and related quantities
Potential Energy Formula
Gravitational potential energy depends on mass, gravitational acceleration, and height. It represents the energy stored due to position in a gravitational field.
PE = mghVariables:
PEPotential energy (J)mMass (kg)gGravitational acceleration (m/s^2)hHeight (m)Example
Potential Energy Example
Inputs:
Mass:1 kg
Height:10 m
Gravity:9.81 m/s^2
Velocity:0 m/s
Steps:
- 1.Calculate potential energy: PE = mgh = 1 x 9.81 x 10 = 98.1 J
- 2.Calculate kinetic energy: KE = (1/2)mv^2 = 0.5 x 1 x 0^2 = 0 J
- 3.Calculate total energy: E = PE + KE = 98.1 + 0 = 98.1 J
- 4.This represents 98.1 J of stored potential energy
Result:
Potential Energy: 98.1J | Kinetic Energy: 0J | Total: 98.1J
Frequently Asked Questions
How does height affect potential energy?
Potential energy is directly proportional to height. Doubling the height doubles the potential energy, assuming constant mass and gravity.