Physics

Problem

Identify the correct expression for the gravitational potential energy

U

of two point masses

m_1

and

m_2

separated by a distance

r

in free space. a)

U = - \dfrac{1}{2}\,G\dfrac{m_1 m_2}{r}

U = + G\dfrac{m_1 m_2}{r}

U = - G\dfrac{m_1 m_2}{r}

U = - 2\,G\dfrac{m_1 m_2}{r}