Calculating Gravitational Energy

In summary, the conversation is discussing an equation for energy that was obtained by multiplying angular acceleration with the surface area of a sphere. The equation was used in planetary motion, but it is important to note that just because something has the dimensions of energy does not necessarily mean it is an energy. Additionally, work also has the dimensions of energy and this equation may represent the amount of work needed to accelerate a thin spherical shell.
  • #1
Bravodhan
7
0
When I multiplied angular accelaration with surface area of sphere .I got an equation for energy.

What do this equation mean by?
Is this equation describe gravitational energy?
 
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  • #2
Can you post the equations you used and the problem they were used in?
 
  • #3
But dimensionally this equation is correct.
 
  • #4
Angular accelaration*surface area of a sphere = Energy
Angular velocity/time*4(pi)r2=Energy

Dimensional formula:-
M0 L0 T-2 * M L2 T0 = M L2 T-2

M L2 T-2 = Energy

I take this energy equation in terms of planetry motion .
 
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  • #5
The fact that something has dimensions of energy doesn't make it an energy. Torque, for example.
 
  • #6
First, if its truly surface area, you get M0 not M. The whole equation is massless.
The way you have written it, it is the mass of a thin spherical shell times the angular acceleration.

Second, Work also has the dimensions of Energy. I think your equation gives you the amount of work expended to accelerate (spin up or spin down) the thin spherical shell by that much.

Jim Graber
 

FAQ: Calculating Gravitational Energy

What is gravitational energy?

Gravitational energy is the potential energy that an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. It is the energy that is required to move an object from one location to another against the force of gravity.

How is gravitational energy calculated?

Gravitational energy is calculated using the formula E = mgh, where E is the gravitational energy, m is the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height of the object from the ground.

Can gravitational energy be negative?

Yes, gravitational energy can be negative. This occurs when an object is moved closer to the source of gravity, resulting in a decrease in potential energy. The negative value indicates that work must be done to move the object further away from the source of gravity.

How does the mass of an object affect its gravitational energy?

The greater the mass of an object, the greater its gravitational energy will be. This is because a heavier object has a stronger gravitational pull and therefore requires more work to move against the force of gravity.

What are some real-life applications of calculating gravitational energy?

Calculating gravitational energy is important in many fields, such as astronomy, physics, and engineering. It is used to understand the motion of celestial bodies, design structures and machines, and determine potential energy sources, such as hydroelectric power. It also plays a crucial role in the study of gravity and the laws of motion.

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