Physics · Class 11

Explore the gravitational energy well

Gravitational potential is potential energy per unit probe mass. With zero at infinity it is negative at finite distance; work must be supplied to move the probe outward. Field magnitude decreases faster with radius than potential magnitude.

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Explore the gravitational energy well

முடிவிலியில் ஈர்ப்பு நிலை ஆற்றல் பூஜ்யமாக எடுத்தால் அருகில் அது எதிர்மறை. வெளியே நகர்த்த வேலை செய்ய வேண்டும்.

Key notes, relationships and model limits

Key relationship

V=−GM/r; U=mV; g=GM/r²; g points toward the centre.

Remember

Common trap

A negative potential is a reference-dependent energy statement, not a negative field magnitude.

Model limits

Exterior Earth field; zero potential at infinity. Radial coordinate starts above the surface.

What you will learn

Distinguish field, potential and potential energy, including the reference zero.

Try the experiment

Try both scenarios, change one control, and predict the result before checking the graph and readouts.

Think of it this way

Change one input while keeping the others fixed, as you would in a controlled experiment.

Worked example

At r=10⁷ m, V=−GM/r≈−3.986×10⁷ J/kg. A 10 kg probe has U≈−3.986×10⁸ J.

Why this matters

The model connects explore the gravitational energy well with an observable reading. Check the equation and assumptions before applying it.

Before you start

SI units · algebra · graph reading

Check your understanding

Why is the potential energy negative here?

Because gravity repels the probe
The zero is at infinity and the probe is gravitationally bound
Because the probe has negative kinetic energy

Read the explanation

At a finite radius the attractive field has lowered energy below the selected reference.

Course connection: Class XI Chapter 7. Consult the roadmap for CBSE, NEET, JEE Main and Advanced scope.