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derivation of gravitational potential energy equation

Derivation of Gravitational potential energy equations

Deriving equations of Gravitational Potential Energy (1)with planet’s surface as the zero level & (2)infinity is chosen as the zero level, 1] If we choose a planet’s surface as the zero level or reference, Gravitational Potential Energy Ep at x has a positive value.
If infinity is chosen as the zero level, Ep has a negative value.
Gravitational potential energy Ep = (mg) × h = mgh (if we choose a planet’s surface as the zero level or reference).
Gravitational potential energy Ep can be expressed as Ep = – G m1m2 / r (if infinity is chosen as the zero level).


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