The formula for potential energy (PE) is given by the equation:
PE = mgh
In this equation:
- 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, approximately 9.81 m/s² on the surface of the Earth.
- h is the height of the object above a reference point, measured in meters (m).
This formula helps us calculate the gravitational potential energy of an object based on its position in a gravitational field. Essentially, the higher you lift an object, or the larger its mass, the more potential energy it has. This energy can be converted into kinetic energy if the object is allowed to fall or move downward.