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

AI Thread Summary
Negative mass arises from the calculation of potential energy between stationary opposite charges, leading to a negative energy value. This negative energy, when divided by the square of the speed of light, suggests the existence of negative mass. The significance of this negative mass is debated, particularly regarding its impact on the total mass of the system. Additionally, the concept of negative energy raises questions about its implications in regions where it exists. Ultimately, only changes in potential energy are considered physically meaningful, as the absolute values depend on the arbitrary choice of the zero point.
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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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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