Question

Consider making an analogy between the gravitational potential energy associated with a mass being moved near the surface of the Earth and the electric potential energy associated with a moveable charge. Electric potential (NOT electric potential energy) is to charge as __________ is to mass.

Answer 1

Gravitational potential

Step-by-step explanation:

The gravitational potential at a point in the gravitational field is defined as the work per unit of mass that a force must carry out to transport a body, at a constant speed, from a fixed reference location to that point.

`(W_(ab))/(m)=(GM)/(r_b)-(GM)/(r_a)\\\Delta V_(ab)=(W_(ab))/(m)\\V=-(GM)/(r)`

The negative sign indicates that the work done by the gravitational force implies a decrease in gravitational potential.