Noduagga
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...(after infinite distance) falls into earth, would exist infinite potential energy if E=mgh and h is infinite?
The discussion revolves around the concept of potential energy for an object falling from an infinite distance towards Earth, specifically examining the implications of using the formula E=mgh in this context. Participants explore theoretical aspects of potential energy, the nature of infinity, and the limitations of various equations in gravitational physics.
Participants express disagreement regarding the implications of potential energy at infinite distances, with some asserting infinite potential energy and others refuting this claim based on physical principles. The discussion remains unresolved, with multiple competing views presented.
Limitations include the dependence on the definitions of potential energy and the assumptions regarding the applicability of E=mgh versus the full gravitational potential energy equation. The discussion does not resolve these limitations.
Everybody remember infinity is a "concept" (a very useful one) but not a physical "thing!"Chronos said:Irrelevant, anything at infinity has no influence on the observable universe
Noduagga said:...(after infinite distance) falls into earth, would exist infinite potential energy if E=mgh and h is infinite?
E=mgh is only an approximation, valid for objects near the Earth's surface.Noduagga said:...(after infinite distance) falls into earth, would exist infinite potential energy if E=mgh and h is infinite?