Potential energy, Is energy a constant scalar value?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of potential energy, questioning whether all physical objects possess it and if energy can be considered a constant scalar value. Participants explore the nature of potential energy in relation to kinetic energy and the implications of reference frames.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that all physical objects have potential energy, even when not in motion, and that they can convert to kinetic energy when a force is applied.
  • Others argue that the zero-point of potential energy is arbitrary, allowing for any potential energy value to be assigned to objects.
  • It is suggested that kinetic energy is dependent on the reference frame, which may influence the understanding of energy in motion.
  • A later reply questions the existence of a limit or constant value for potential energy, suggesting that energy exists in various forms without a fixed number.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of potential energy and whether it can be considered constant. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not clarify the assumptions regarding the definitions of potential and kinetic energy, nor do they resolve the implications of reference frames on energy values.

Miyz
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Hello everyone,

Does everything in the universe have potential energy? I know there are two main form's of energy that are showen every day... Motion KE and potential energy and I believe all physical object's have PE and some are in KE even if they lose that motion they will return back to PE.
In a way everything in the universe has Potential Energy right?

Everything thing around us that's not in motion has potential energy... As soon as a force is applied to it that causes it to move it gains kinetic energy?
I look at energy as an ability given to all physical objects in the universe its more of a trait... I wonder is it constant? Does energy have a constant value? I believe not...Miyz,
 
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The zero-point of potential energy is arbitrary, so you can assign any potential energy value to any object you like.

Everything thing around us that's not in motion has potential energy
And everything in motion, too.

As soon as a force is applied to it that causes it to move it gains kinetic energy?
In systems where it increases its speed.
Kinetic energy depends on your reference frame.
 
mfb said:
The zero-point of potential energy is arbitrary, so you can assign any potential energy value to any object you like.


And everything in motion, too.


In systems where it increases its speed.
Kinetic energy depends on your reference frame.

Thanks! This makes a lot of good sense.

I think there is no limit or constant number for potential energy we just know as a fact everything has energy in a certain form.
 
Would anyone else like to share more about this topic?
 

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