Physics Help Home Page » Physics Help Glossary / Index »
Gravitational Potential Energy
Definition of Gravitational Potential Energy
Gravitational Potential Energy may be absolute or relative.
Absolute gravitational potential energy is the work done on an object moving it from infinity to a location in a gravitational field. This value can not be greater than zero.
Relative gravitational potential energy is the energy stored by an object because of its height in a gravitational field. Since height is chosen with respect to some other position, height and relative gravitational potential energy may be positive, zero, or negative.
Gravitational Potential Energy Explained with Examples
Gravitational Potential Energy and Pole Vaulting
Gravitational Potential Energy and Roller Coasters
Gravitational Potential Energy in Physics Problems
Gravitational Potential Energy in Conservation of Energy
Work and Gravitational Potential Energy
Gravitational Potential Energy and Rotational Motion
Work and Power Problems
|