Gravitational Potential Energy Examples in Physics

Start with the recap, study the fully worked examples, then use the practice problems to check your understanding of Gravitational Potential Energy.

This page combines explanation, solved examples, and follow-up practice so you can move from recognition to confident problem-solving in Physics.

Concept Recap

Energy stored in an object due to its height above a reference point in a gravitational field: PE = mgh.

The higher you lift something, the more energy it stores (ready to fall).

Read the full concept explanation →

How to Use These Examples

  • Read the first worked example with the solution open so the structure is clear.
  • Try the practice problems before revealing each solution.
  • Use the related concepts and background knowledge badges if you feel stuck.

What to Focus On

Core idea: Height is relative—choose your zero point, then be consistent.

Common stuck point: The formula mgh only works near Earth's surface where g is constant.

Sense of Study hint: When solving a gravitational PE problem, first choose a reference height where PE = 0 (usually the lowest point in the problem). Then identify the mass m and the height h above your reference. Finally, calculate PE = mgh using g = 9.8 m/s². If comparing two positions, compute the change: \Delta PE = mg(h_f - h_i).

Worked Examples

Example 1

easy
What is the gravitational potential energy of a 4 \text{ kg} book on a shelf 2.5 \text{ m} above the floor? Use g = 9.8 \text{ m/s}^2.

Solution

  1. 1
    Use the gravitational potential energy formula: PE = mgh.
  2. 2
    Substitute the values: PE = 4 \times 9.8 \times 2.5.
  3. 3
    PE = 98 \text{ J}

Answer

PE = 98 \text{ J}
Gravitational potential energy depends on mass, gravitational acceleration, and height above a reference point. It represents stored energy due to an object's position in a gravitational field.

Example 2

medium
A 50 \text{ kg} person climbs a 15 \text{ m} ladder. How much gravitational PE do they gain? Use g = 9.8 \text{ m/s}^2.

Practice Problems

Try these problems on your own first, then open the solution to compare your method.

Example 1

easy
At what height does a 2 \text{ kg} object have 392 \text{ J} of gravitational PE? Use g = 9.8 \text{ m/s}^2.

Example 2

medium
A 0.5 \text{ kg} ball is thrown upward and reaches a maximum height of 12 \text{ m}. What was the ball's kinetic energy at launch? Use g = 10 \text{ m/s}^2.
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Background Knowledge

These ideas may be useful before you work through the harder examples.

potential energygravity