Gravitational Potential Energy Of A Two Particle System

Gravitational Potential Energy Of A Two Particle System — the NEET Physics formula with its derivation, variables, validity constraints and worked solver.

Gravitational Potential Energy of a Two-Particle System Valid for point masses or spherically symmetric mass distributions (where r is the distance between centers). Not valid inside a mass distribution without modification. Define Work as integral of Force dot dr. Force is -G m1 m2 / r 2 (attractive). Integrate Force from infinity to r. Result is -G m1 m2 / r. r > 0 m 1 > 0 m 2 > 0 Reference potential is 0 at infinity Confusing the denominator r with r 2 (which is for Force). Omitting the negative sign (implies repulsive force or incorrect reference). Assuming U = mgh applies at planetary scales (mgh is only for uniform fields near surface).