Physics
Advanced

Gravitational Potential Energy (General)

Potential energy of two masses at distance r.

Formula

U=−GMmrU = -\frac{GMm}{r}

Variables

GGravitational constant
M,mMasses
rSeparation

Example

Zero at infinite separation

Did You Know?

Gravitational potential energy is why a raised hammer, a full reservoir, and a drawn bow all store usable power.

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