What is the definition of potential energy of a system?

AI Thread Summary
Potential energy is defined as a property of a system, reflecting the energy stored due to the position of its components relative to each other. In the context of two protons in a helium atom, the potential energy relates to the work needed to bring them together from an infinite distance. This energy is influenced by the electrostatic forces between the protons. Understanding potential energy as a system property clarifies that it encompasses the interactions between all components involved. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing the system's context when evaluating potential energy.
engineeringstudnt
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Homework Statement
potential energy of a system ?
Relevant Equations
w=DeltaU
hi guys i am encountered with a question that is : two protons in a helium atom stand close together,approximately at a distance of 2 fm. what is the potential energy of this system ?

i can understand the concepts that are potential of a particle or potentail of a object etc but can't understand the potential of a system concept what is the definition of this ? can you explain?
 
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How much work is required to bring those two protons together from infinitely far apart?
 
engineeringstudnt said:
Homework Statement:: potential energy of a system ?
Relevant Equations:: w=DeltaU

i can understand the concepts that are potential of a particle or potentail of a object etc but can't understand the potential of a system concept
That's a bit paradoxical. Potential energy is really a property of a system. When you refer to the potential energy of a rock at the top of a cliff you mean the potential energy of the Earth-rock system.
 

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