Gravitational Potential (AQA A Level Physics): Revision Note

The gravitational potential energy (G.P.E) is the energy an object has when lifted off the ground given by the familiar equation:

The G.P.E on the surface of the Earth is taken to be zero

• This means work is done to lift the object

This equation is only used for objects that are close to the Earth's surface

However, outside the Earth’s surface, G.P.E can be defined as:

The energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field

The gravitational potential at a point is the gravitational potential energy per unit mass at that point

Therefore, it is defined as:

The work done per unit mass in bringing a test mass from infinity to a defined point

It is represented by the symbol, $V$ and is measured in J kg^-1

The gravitational potential is always a negative value

This is because:

• it is defined as zero at infinity

• since the gravitational force is attractive, work must be done on a mass to reach infinity

This means that the gravitational potential is negative on the surface of a mass (such as a planet), and increases with distance from that mass (becomes less negative)

Work has to be done against the gravitational pull of the planet to take a unit mass away from the planet

The gravitational potential at a point depends on the mass of the object producing the gravitational field and the distance the point is from that mass

Two points at different distances from a mass will have different gravitational potentials

• This is because the gravitational potential increases with distance from a mass

Therefore, there will be a gravitational potential difference between the two points

• This is represented by the symbol $∆V$

$∆V$ is normally given as the equation

Where:

• $V_f$ = final gravitational potential (J kg^-1)

• $V_i$ = initial gravitational potential (J kg^-1)

A difference in gravitational potential will give a difference in gravitational potential energy, that can also be calculated