GCSEPhysicsAQARevision NotesEnergyEnergy Changes in a SystemGravitational Potential Energy

Gravitational Potential Energy (AQA GCSE Physics): Revision Note

Exam code: 8463

Written by: Katie M

Reviewed by: Caroline Carroll

Updated on 2 July 2026

What is Gravitational Potential Energy?

Energy in the gravitational store of an object is defined as:
The energy an object has due to its height in a gravitational field
This means:
- If an object is lifted up, energy is transferred to its gravitational potential store
- If an object falls, energy will be transferred away from its gravitational potential store

Illustration of a person lifting a weight labelled "MASS, m" at height "h". Arrow indicates height. Equation "GPE = m × g × h" for gravitational potential energy.

Gravitational Potential Energy Equation

The gravitational potential energy, E_p, of an object can be calculated using the equation:

E_p= m × g × h

Where:
- E_p = gravitational potential energy, in joules (J)
- m = mass, in kilograms (kg)
- g = gravitational field strength in newtons per kilogram (N/kg)
- h = height in metres (m)

Gravitational Field Strength

The gravitational field strength (g) on the Earth is approximately 9.8 N/kg
The gravitational field strength on the surface of the Moon is less than on the Earth
- This means it would be easier to lift a mass on the Moon than on the Earth
The gravitational field strength on the surface of the gas giants (eg. Jupiter and Saturn) is more than on the Earth
- This means it would be harder to lift a mass on the gas giants than on the Earth

Illustration of the Sun, planets, and Moon showing relative gravitational forces: Sun 293.0, Jupiter 24.7, Saturn 10.5, Uranus 9.0, Earth 9.8, Mars 3.7, Moon 1.7 N/kg.

Some values for g on the different objects in the Solar System

Worked Example

A man of mass 70 kg climbs a flight of stairs that is 3 m higher than the floor. Gravitational field strength is approximately 9.8 N/kg. Calculate the energy transferred to the man's gravitational potential energy store.

Answer:

Step 1: List the known quantities

Mass of the man, m = 70 kg
Gravitational field strength, g = 9.8 N/kg
Height, Δh = 3 m

Step 2: Write down the equation for gravitational potential energy

ΔE_P = mgΔh

Step 3: Calculate the gravitational potential energy

ΔE_P = 70 × 9.8 × 3

ΔE_P = 2058 J

Examiner Tips and Tricks

When doing calculations involving gravitational field strength, g, always use the value of 9.8 N/kg unless you are told otherwise in your exam question. You will be expected to remember the value of g for your exam!

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