Gravitational Potential Energy of a particle

AI Thread Summary
Gravitational potential energy is defined as U = -GMm/R, and while one might consider attributing half of this energy to each particle, it is more accurate to view it as an interaction energy belonging to the pair rather than to the individual particles. This distinction is important as it reflects the nature of gravitational interactions, which differ from electric energy in terms of identification and measurement. General relativity further complicates the understanding of gravitational energy, indicating that it cannot be treated in the same way as electric energy. The discussion emphasizes the collective nature of gravitational potential energy rather than individual attribution. Understanding these concepts is crucial for a proper grasp of gravitational interactions.
makyol
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Hi there,

As we know gravitational potential energy is U = -GMm/R right? Here is what i obsessed, in case for the each particle can we say half of this energy belongs to one particle? I hope my question is clear enough:)

Thanks in advance.
 
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Um... well, I guess you could say that if you wanted to, but generally there isn't any reason to do so, and it could even be misleading. The gravitational potential energy is an interaction energy, so it really belongs to the pair, not to the particles individually. The old adage about the whole being more than the sum of its parts really applies here.
 
Hi.
As for electric energy, similar inverse r case, we can identify where and how much there are. But general relativity theory says it is not so for gravitational energy.
Regards.
 

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