Home
Class 12
PHYSICS
Can a single isolated particle possess p...

Can a single isolated particle possess potential energy? Justify.

Text Solution

Verified by Experts

No. Potential energy can be defined only for a system of particles or objects. Potential energy arises only when the particle is subjected to a force which is produced by some other object. When we say potential energy of an object at a height is mgh, it implies a system consisting of the object and the earth which produces gravitational effect.
Promotional Banner

Similar Questions

Explore conceptually related problems

Can a single isolated force exist in nature ?

A particle executing SHM with an amplitude A. The displacement of the particle when its potential energy is half of its total energy is

What do you mean by the term potential energy ? Give some examples of bodies possessing potential energy ?

In position A kinetic energy of a particle is 60 J and potential energy is -20 J. In position B, kinetic energy is 100 J and potential energy is 40 J. Then, in moving the particle from A to B

Which of the following objects would possess potential energy?

Moving air (wind) possesses (kinetic/ potential) energy

Assertion: Energy of an isolated particles system is constant. Reason: Isolated system do not allow exchange of energy

When displacement of a particle executing SHM is half of the amplitude,its potential energy is 5 J. Find the total energy of the particle in SHM,if potential energy at mean position is zero.