Why is gravitational potential energy between two objects always a negative value?
In short: This video explains the mathematical expression for gravitational potential energy between two massive bodies. It clarifies why this energy is expressed as a negative value, helping you understand the fundamental physics of orbital systems and mass distributions.
The gravitational potential energy of two spherical masses, such as planets or stars, is defined by the formula U_g = -GMm/r. This negative sign arises from a specific choice of reference point: the system's potential energy is defined as zero when the two masses are separated by an infinite distance.
Because the zero-point is set at infinity, any configuration where the masses are closer together results in a potential energy value less than zero. This framework is essential for calculating the energy states of celestial bodies and understanding how gravitational forces interact across space.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Potential energy and conservative forces (part 2) | AP Physics | Khan Academy
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