Can the kinetic energy of a system be negative?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of kinetic energy and whether it can be negative, alongside a comparison to gravitational potential energy, which can also take on negative values. Participants are exploring the definitions and implications of these energy types in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the definitions of kinetic and potential energy, particularly in relation to their mathematical representations. Some are considering how velocity affects kinetic energy and the implications of negative values in these contexts.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants offering different perspectives on the nature of kinetic energy and potential energy. Some have suggested looking at definitions for clarity, while others are examining the mathematical relationships involved. There is no explicit consensus yet, as various interpretations are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants are addressing the relative nature of potential energy and questioning how this relates to kinetic energy. The conversation includes considerations of negative values in the context of velocity and gravitational effects.

parwana
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Can the kinetic energy of a system be negative? Explain why or why not?

Also I know gravitational potential energy of a system can be negative but I need a better explanation on why it is so.
 
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What is the equation for kinetic energy? What about it helps you answer the question?

Potential energy (gravitational, voltege, etc.) is relative to some datum. How does that help you answer the 2nd question?


PS -- I'm moving this thread to the Homework forums.
 
It is best to look at the definitions, they provide good explanations. :smile:
 
I am just trying to understand the concept behind these. I guess Kinetic Energy can be negative if the velocity is negative. Also Potential energy can be negative due to g being negative.

Can someone explain these in greater details.
 
How can the KE be negative, given the simple form involving an object's mass and velocity?
 
by the way, if the velocity is negative, it doesn't make KE negative, since the equations for KE is (.5)(m)(v)^2. So if v is negative, it turns positive.
 

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