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Potential Energy Formula:
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Potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position relative to other objects. In the context of gravitational potential energy, it represents the energy an object possesses because of its height above a reference point.
The calculator uses the potential energy formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the energy stored in an object due to Earth's gravitational field. On Earth, the standard value for g is approximately 9.8 m/s².
Details: Calculating potential energy is fundamental in physics and engineering for understanding energy conservation, designing mechanical systems, and analyzing motion in gravitational fields.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, gravitational acceleration in m/s² (9.8 m/s² for Earth), and height in meters. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is the standard value for gravitational acceleration?
A: On Earth's surface, the standard value is approximately 9.8 m/s², though it varies slightly with location and altitude.
Q2: Does potential energy depend on the path taken?
A: No, gravitational potential energy depends only on the vertical height difference, not on the path taken to reach that height.
Q3: What is the reference point for height measurement?
A: The reference point is arbitrary but is typically chosen as the lowest point in the system being analyzed.
Q4: Can potential energy be negative?
A: Yes, if the reference point is set above the object, the height can be negative, resulting in negative potential energy.
Q5: How does potential energy relate to kinetic energy?
A: According to the law of conservation of energy, potential energy can be converted to kinetic energy and vice versa, with the total mechanical energy remaining constant in a closed system.