The energy of a body raised to a height h in a gravitational field.
Symbols
Ep
potential energy
[J]
m
mass
[kg]
g
gravitational acceleration
[m/s²]
h
height
[m]
Where it comes from
Energy stored by virtue of position in a gravitational field; measured relative to a chosen reference level (h=0). Raising a body requires work equal to the increase in Ep.
When to use it
Bodies at a height; energy conversions (free fall, pendulum). Measure h from the chosen reference level.
Example
A body of mass 5 kg is at a height of 3 m. Find its potential energy (g=10).