- #1
avery
- 24
- 0
If the positive energy is the capacity to perform work
what about the negative energy?
what about the negative energy?
What is negative energy and how does it relate to the capacity for work?
- Thread starter avery
- Start date
In summary, negative energy does not exist in terms of kinetic energy, as it is always positive. However, in terms of potential energy, it can be negative if the reference point is set at infinity. This means that there is less capacity to perform work compared to if the potential energy was 0. A bound system, such as a hydrogen atom, can also be considered to have negative energy, as it takes energy to free the electron from the proton.
- #2
tiny-tim
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
- 25,839
- 258
hi avery! 
there's no such thing as negative kinetic energy (KE)
and potential energy (PE) is always relative
for example, we usually take electric potential energy to be zero at infinity, which means that (for positive charges) it's always negative!
negative potential energy simply means less capacity to perform work than if the potential energy was 0
(there's always some capacity to do work!)
there's no such thing as negative kinetic energy (KE)
and potential energy (PE) is always relative
for example, we usually take electric potential energy to be zero at infinity, which means that (for positive charges) it's always negative!
negative potential energy simply means less capacity to perform work than if the potential energy was 0
(there's always some capacity to do work!
)- #3
Khashishi
Science Advisor
- 2,813
- 492
A bound system can be regarded as having negative energy. For example, the ground state energy of a hydrogen atom is about -13.6eV (*). This means it takes 13.6eV energy input to free the electron from the proton.
(*) This isn't the total energy because it doesn't include the rest energy of the proton and electron. The total energy is positive.
(*) This isn't the total energy because it doesn't include the rest energy of the proton and electron. The total energy is positive.
1. What exactly is negative energy?
Negative energy is a term used in physics to describe the potential energy of an object or system that is less than its actual energy. It can also refer to the emotional or psychological energy associated with negative emotions such as anger, fear, or sadness.
2. How is negative energy different from positive energy?
Negative energy is different from positive energy in that it has a lower potential energy and is typically associated with negative emotions or unfavorable conditions. Positive energy, on the other hand, has a higher potential energy and is associated with positive emotions and desirable conditions.
3. Can negative energy be measured or quantified?
In physics, negative energy can be measured or quantified using mathematical equations and formulas, such as the principle of conservation of energy. However, when referring to negative energy in terms of emotions or psychological states, it is not easily measurable or quantifiable.
4. Is negative energy always bad?
Negative energy can have both positive and negative effects. In terms of physics, negative energy is necessary for certain physical phenomena to occur, such as the expansion of the universe. In terms of emotions, negative energy can also serve as a motivator for change and growth.
5. How can one deal with or overcome negative energy?
There are several ways to deal with or overcome negative energy, depending on the context. In physics, negative energy can be balanced out by positive energy through various processes such as energy transfer or conversion. In terms of emotions, techniques such as positive thinking, mindfulness, and self-care can help manage and reduce negative energy.
Similar threads
-
Quantum Physics
-
Quantum Physics
-
Quantum Physics
-
Quantum Physics
-
Quantum Physics
-
Quantum Physics
-
Quantum Physics
-
Quantum Physics