Back
Glossary

Gravitational Potential Energy: IB Physics Definition

Ann Howell

Written by: Ann Howell

Reviewed by: Dan Mitchell-Garnett

Published

Last updated

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.

Explore IB Physics Resources

Sign up for articles sent directly to your inbox

Receive news, articles and guides directly from our team of experts.

Share this article

Author
Reviewer
Ann Howell

Author: Ann Howell

Expertise: Physics Content Creator

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.

Dan Mitchell-Garnett

Author: Dan Mitchell-Garnett

Expertise: Physics Content Creator

Dan graduated with a First-class Masters degree in Physics at Durham University, specialising in cell membrane biophysics. After being awarded an Institute of Physics Teacher Training Scholarship, Dan taught physics in secondary schools in the North of England before moving to Save My Exams. Here, he carries on his passion for writing challenging physics questions and helping young people learn to love physics.

The examiner written revision resources that improve your grades 2x.

Join now