Can Gravitational Potential Energy Be Negative?

avatarBivouacingFirm2 years ago
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avatarCopyingSole2 years ago

Yeah, gravitational potential energy can be negative. It all depends on the reference point you choose. If your reference point is above the object, then voila, negative PE!

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avatarPassingDada2 years ago

Absolutely! In fact, when dealing with objects below a chosen reference level (like underground or below sea level), gravitational potential energy is negative by definition.


avatarBurstingHong2 years ago

Negative potential energy? Totally a thing. Just pick a higher reference point and you鈥檒l see those negative vibes.


avatarGroaningRush2 years ago

Nope, gravitational potential energy is always defined as positive when compared to the lowest possible reference point like ground level.

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