Define gravitational potential energy. Derive expression for gravitational potential in the gravitational field of earth at distance r from the centre of the earth.
A
=−r2GMm
B
=−rGMm
C
=−r3GMm
D
=−r4GMm
Medium
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Updated on : 2022-09-05
Solution
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Correct option is B)
The work obtained in bringing a body from infinity to a point in gravitational field is called gravitational potential energy.
Force of attraction between the earth and the object when an object is at the distance a from the center of the earth.
F=x2GmM
Consider the dW is the small amount of work done in bringing the body without acceleration through the very small distance dx
dW=Fdx
And total work done to bring the body from infinity to point p which is at distance r from the center of the earth.