# Gravitational potential energy

Stored energy due to height, PE = mgh. It can turn into motion when the object falls.

Physics (university) · Part 03: Work, energy and momentum · Card 4 of 9 · Last updated 2026-10-19

## Analogy

A boulder on a cliff holds energy ready to use.

## Example

**Lifting a mass**

PE = m g h
PE = 2 x 9.8 x 5
PE = 98 J

## In practice

Lifting 2 kg by 5 m stores 98 J.

## Practice

### Flashcards

- **What is gravitational potential energy near Earth?** PE = m g h.

## Questions people ask

### Where do I put the zero of potential energy?

Anywhere you like. Only changes in potential energy matter physically. Pick a convenient level, such as the ground or the lowest point, and measure heights from there. The final answers for speed or work will be the same whichever zero you choose.

### Does the path matter for potential energy?

No. Gravity is a conservative force, so the energy change depends only on the start and end heights. Climbing a ladder or a long gentle ramp to the same height stores the same mgh. The ramp just needs a smaller force over a longer distance.

## Related concepts

- [Work](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/physics-university/physics-university-part-3/physics-university-part-3-concept-1)
- [Kinetic energy](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/physics-university/physics-university-part-3/physics-university-part-3-concept-2)
- [Work-energy theorem](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/physics-university/physics-university-part-3/physics-university-part-3-concept-3)
- [Conservation of energy](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/physics-university/physics-university-part-3/physics-university-part-3-concept-5)

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