A Definition and Controversy of Energy - Physics Forums
May 27, 2015 · Gravitational potential energy, for example, depends on an object’s height above the ground. The formula for gravitational potential energy is PE = m * g * h, where “m” is the mass, “g” is …
Confusion about infinity in gravitational potential energy (GPE)
Aug 23, 2025 · You could just as well pick any point P P at finite distance as the reference point and define GPEP(r, m) G P E P (r, m) as the net change in energy gained or lost when moving an object …
Potential Energy Explained — Definitions & Formulas
Jun 25, 2019 · Potential energy is simply another name for (minus) the work done by a conservative force.Since the work-energy theorem states that change in energy minus work done is constant.
Confused about definition of gravitational potential energy (GPE)
Jun 8, 2023 · The gravitational potential energy of a mass at a point in a field is defined as the work done by an external agent in bringing that mass from infinity to that point, without a change in kinetic …
Concept of Gravitational potential energy - Physics Stack Exchange
Oct 30, 2021 · The potential energy at infinity is only infinite if it takes an infinite amount of work to get to infinity. However, because the gravitational force decreases rapidly with distance, a projectile rapidly …
Gravitational Potential Energy Definition • Physics Forums
Mar 17, 2009 · The discussion centers on the definition of gravitational potential energy, emphasizing that it should not be defined in isolation for a single object. The consensus is that stating "the …
Why is gravitational potential energy defined at infinity?
Feb 21, 2014 · The discussion revolves around the definition of gravitational potential energy (GPE) at infinity, exploring the implications of this choice and its relationship to concepts like energy …
Why is change in potential energy is always negative?
Sep 29, 2016 · A participant mentions that gravitational potential energy is defined to be zero at infinity, implying that all potential energy values must be negative when measured from that point. Some …
Gravitational potential energy -- Why is it always negative?
Aug 8, 2020 · The discussion revolves around the nature of gravitational potential energy, specifically why it is defined as negative when the reference point is taken to be at infinity, where potential …
What is meant by 'Gravitational Potential Energy of a System'?
Jul 13, 2021 · The potential energy belongs to the system of the object and the gravitational field. There are many misconceptions associated with a single object possessing a potential energy.