Gravitational Potential Energy of a particle

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the change in gravitational potential energy (U) of a four-particle system as the distance between them is reduced from 0.700 m to 0.100 m. The user initially computed U for both distances, obtaining values of U_1 at -6.45898846e-12 and U_2 at -2.60012192e-11. They calculated the change in U as 1.95422308e-11 but initially believed it to be incorrect. Ultimately, the user resolved their confusion and confirmed their calculations. The thread highlights the importance of careful computation in gravitational potential energy problems.
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Homework Statement


Four particles, each of mass 60.0 g, form a square with an edge length of d = 0.700 m. If d is reduced to 0.100 m, what is the change in the gravitational potential energy of the four-particle system?

Homework Equations


U = -GMm/r

The Attempt at a Solution


I found the U of the system when d = 0.700 m and then I found the U when d = 0.100 m. Using those two values, I found what I believe to be the change in the U of the system. However, I keep getting the wrong answer.

U_1=-6.45898846e-12
U_2=-2.60012192e-11
(delta)U=1.95422308e-11
 
Last edited:
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Nevermind, I figured it out.
 
Last edited:

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