1. What is Potential Energy?

Potential Energy (PE) is the energy possessed by an object due to its position relative to other objects. The gravitational potential energy of an object near Earth's surface is given by PE = m × g × h, where m is mass, g is gravitational acceleration, and h is height.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the potential energy equation:

Where:

• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kg)
• \( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s² on Earth)
• \( h \) — Height above reference point (m)

Explanation: The equation calculates the work needed to lift an object to a certain height against Earth's gravity.

3. Importance of Potential Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating potential energy is essential in physics, engineering, and various applications like hydropower generation, roller coaster design, and understanding energy conservation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, height in meters, and gravitational acceleration (default is 9.81 m/s² for Earth). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the units of potential energy?
A: The SI unit is joules (J), which equals 1 kg·m²/s².

Q2: Does potential energy depend on the path taken?
A: No, gravitational potential energy depends only on vertical height difference, not the path taken to achieve that height.

Q3: What's the reference point for height measurement?
A: Typically the lowest point in the system being analyzed (often ground level), but any consistent reference can be used as only differences in potential energy matter.

Q4: How does potential energy convert to kinetic energy?
A: As an object falls, its potential energy converts to kinetic energy (energy of motion), with the total mechanical energy remaining constant in an ideal system.

Q5: Can potential energy be negative?
A: Yes, if the reference point is chosen above the object's position, but the physical meaning remains the same - it's the energy difference that matters.