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Gravitational Potential Energy - IB Physics Definition

Reviewed by: Ann Howell

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In IB Physics, gravitational potential energy is defined as the energy stored in a mass due to its position in a gravitational field. If a mass is lifted, it will gain gravitational potential energy. If a mass falls, it will lose gravitational potential energy.

The equation for gravitational potential energy of an object when close to the surface of the Earth is:

increment E subscript p space equals space m g increment h

Where:

  • increment E subscript p = gravitational potential energy (straight J)

  • m = mass (kg)

  • g= gravitational field strength (9.8 space straight N divided by kg)

  • increment h= change in height (straight m)

Person lifting a mass labelled "m" with a height "h," illustrating the gravitational potential energy formula ΔEp = m × g × h.
Gravitational potential energy: The energy an object has when lifted up.

The potential energy on the Earth’s surface at ground level is usually taken to be equal to zero. However, any position can be taken as zero if you are calculating the change in gravitational potential energy.

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Ann Howell

Reviewer: Ann Howell

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Ann obtained her Maths and Physics degree from the University of Bath before completing her PGCE in Science and Maths teaching. She spent ten years teaching Maths and Physics to wonderful students from all around the world whilst living in China, Ethiopia and Nepal. Now based in beautiful Devon she is thrilled to be creating awesome Physics resources to make Physics more accessible and understandable for all students, no matter their schooling or background.

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