Potential Energy Calculator

What is Potential Energy?

Potential energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its position or configuration within a force field, typically a gravitational field. It represents the stored energy that can be converted into kinetic energy when the object's position changes.

Formula

The formula for gravitational potential energy is:

\[ PE = mgh \]

Where:

• \(PE\) is the potential energy, measured in joules (J)
• \(m\) is the mass of the object, measured in kilograms (kg)
• \(g\) is the acceleration due to gravity, typically 9.8 m/s² on Earth's surface
• \(h\) is the height above a reference point, measured in meters (m)

Calculation Steps

Let's calculate the potential energy of a 2 kg object raised to a height of 5 meters above the ground:

1. Identify the known values:
   • Mass (m) = 2 kg
   • Gravity (g) = 9.8 m/s²
   • Height (h) = 5 m
2. Apply the potential energy formula: \[ PE = mgh \]
3. Substitute the known values: \[ PE = 2 \text{ kg} \times 9.8 \text{ m/s²} \times 5 \text{ m} \]
4. Perform the calculation: \[ PE = 98 \text{ J} \]

Example and Visual Representation

Let's visualize the potential energy concept with our example:

This visual representation shows:

• The object with a mass of 2 kg suspended at a height of 5 m above the ground
• The gravitational force (g) acting on the object
• The potential energy (98 J) possessed by the object due to its elevated position