Gravitational Potential Energy Calculator
Calculate the change in gravitational potential energy near a surface, or solve for mass, height change or gravitational field strength. Signed heights make the chosen reference part of the calculation.
Enter your values or load an example. Calculations stay in this browser.
Choose what the height is measured from
Potential-energy change depends on the difference between final and reference height. A point below your reference has a negative height change and a negative energy change in a downward gravitational field.
Separate mass from weight
Mass is entered in kilograms, grams or pounds of mass. Gravitational field strength is entered in m/s². Do not enter a weight in newtons as though it were a mass in kilograms.
Work through a two-metre lift
For 10 kg raised 2 m with g = 9.80665 m/s², the energy change is 196.133 J. Lowering the same mass by 2 m gives −196.133 J. The calculator reports this signed change, not an absolute total energy.
Use a model that fits the distance
The mgh relation assumes a nearly uniform gravitational field. It is useful near a surface over small changes in height. Orbital distances and large radial changes need a gravitational potential model based on distance from the attracting body.
References
Related free tools
Frequently Asked Questions
Can potential-energy change be negative?
Yes. With positive mass and gravity, moving below the chosen reference gives a negative height change and energy change.
Why is zero height rejected when solving for mass?
With zero height change, energy change is zero for every mass. The equation cannot uniquely determine mass or gravity.
Can I change gravity for another world?
Yes. Enter a positive gravitational field strength appropriate to your problem; no planet value is silently assumed.
Does this calculate kinetic energy?
No. It calculates a gravitational potential-energy change. Total mechanical energy also needs kinetic energy and the relevant system assumptions.
Continue in the app
Use Physics AI - Problem Solver on iPhone to work through full problems step by step after this quick check.
