Is Negative Mass Real and How Does It Affect Energy in Space?

In summary, The derivation of potential energy stored in space due to two stationary opposite charges leads to a negative value of mass when divided by c square. This mass has the significance of reducing the total mass of the system of charges. However, since only changes in potential energy are significant, the specific value of this negative mass is arbitrary and depends on the chosen zero point. If this mass gets stored in space, it is unclear what would happen in the region containing negative energy.
  • #1
Kevin1998
Hello Everyone,
While deriving potential energy stored in space due to two stationary opposite charges we end up with negative value of energy which upon dividing by c square provides us with negative value of mass. What is the significance of this mass other than reducing the total mass of system of charges? If the mass gets stored in space than what happens in region containing negative energy?
Thanks for all Answers.
 
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  • #2
Kevin1998 said:
Hello Everyone,
While deriving potential energy stored in space due to two stationary opposite charges we end up with negative value of energy which upon dividing by c square provides us with negative value of mass. What is the significance of this mass other than reducing the total mass of system of charges? If the mass gets stored in space than what happens in region containing negative energy?
Only changes in potential energy are physically meaningful. The actual values depend critically on where you decide to put the zero point. That choice is arbitrary.
 
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Likes Kevin1998

1. What is negative mass?

Negative mass is a theoretical concept in physics where mass has a negative value. This means that instead of being attracted to other objects, negative mass would repel them.

2. Is there any evidence for negative mass?

At this time, there is no direct evidence for negative mass. It is a purely theoretical concept that has not been observed or measured in experiments. However, some scientists believe that certain phenomena, such as dark energy and the expansion of the universe, may be explained by the presence of negative mass.

3. How does negative mass differ from normal mass?

Negative mass is fundamentally different from normal mass in several ways. It would have a repulsive rather than attractive gravitational force, and would also have a negative inertia, meaning it would accelerate in the opposite direction of a force applied to it. Additionally, negative mass would violate the laws of thermodynamics and conservation of energy.

4. Could negative mass be used for space travel?

It is currently unknown if negative mass could be harnessed for space travel. While it may have some interesting properties, it would also violate many fundamental laws of physics. The concept of negative mass is still highly theoretical and more research would be needed to determine its potential applications.

5. How does negative mass impact our understanding of the universe?

If negative mass were to exist, it would have significant implications for our understanding of the universe. It could potentially help explain the mysterious force of dark energy, and could also impact our understanding of the Big Bang theory and the expansion of the universe. However, until it is observed or measured, its impact on our understanding of the universe remains speculative.

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