Energy in Gravitational Fields (HSC SSCE Physics): Flashcards

$U = -\frac{GMm}{r}$

PE less than zero reference point at infinite separation

At infinite separation ($r = \infty$), $U = 0$

Energy needed to completely separate two masses

$E_{\text{total}} = -\frac{GMm}{2r}$

$E_{\text{total}} = \frac{U}{2} = -K$

PE decreases (more negative), KE increases

$v_{\text{esc}} = \sqrt{\frac{2GM}{r}}$

Approximately 11.2 km/s

No, only on central body's mass and distance