Physics A-Level
Negative sign
What Negative sign means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Negative sign
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Negative sign in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
It means the potential energy is zero at infinity and decreases as the mass moves closer, so energy is released when a mass falls towards M.
Topics that use Negative sign
- Gravitational potential and energy (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Energy condition for escape
- Escape velocity
- Gravitational potential
- Gravitational potential energy
- Inverse-distance dependence
- Negative potential near masses
- Scalar nature of potential
- Escape velocity formula
Using Negative sign in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
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