Gravitational Potential Energy for an Extended Body

The Gravitational Potential Energy of an Extended Body calculator computes the potential energy (U) based on the mass (M) and the height of the center of mass (y_cm).

INSTRUCTIONS: Choose units and enter the following:

• (M) This is the mass of the body
• (y_cm) This is the height of the center of mass

Gravitational Potential Energy (U):  The calculator returns the potential energy in joules.  However this can be automatically converted to compatible units via the pull-down menu.

The Math / Science

The formula for the potential energy of an elongated body is:

      U = M•g•y_cm

where:

• U = potential energy
• g = acceleration due to gravity  (default 9.80665 m/s²)
• y_cm = height of the center of gravity

Related Calculators

• Acceleration Due to Gravity

Reference

University Physics 12th Edition, Chapter 9, Equation #9.18