What is gravitational potential?a)It is defined as the work done in ta...
The concept of Gravitational Potential:
The gravitational potential at a point is dened as the work done in bringing the unit mass from innity to that point without acceleration.

Gravitational potential is a scalar quantity. It is denoted by V. Its S.I. unit is J kg^-1 . Its c.g.s. unit is erg g^-1

Dimensions of gravitational potential are [M^0 L^2 T^-2 ].
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What is gravitational potential?a)It is defined as the work done in ta...
Understanding Gravitational Potential
Gravitational potential is a fundamental concept in physics, particularly in the study of gravitation and fields. It provides insight into how gravity influences mass in a gravitational field.
Definition of Gravitational Potential
- Gravitational potential at a point in a gravitational field is defined as:
- **The work done in bringing a unit mass from infinity to that point.**
This definition emphasizes that gravitational potential is concerned with the energy required to move an object within a gravitational field.
Why Option B is Correct
- The reason option 'B' is correct can be broken down as follows:
- **Reference Point:** The choice of infinity as a reference point is crucial because at infinity, the gravitational force is effectively zero. This allows us to measure the potential energy relative to a point where gravitational effects can be ignored.
- **Work Done:** The work done against gravitational attraction as an object is brought from infinity to a specified point quantifies the gravitational potential at that point. This work is converted into gravitational potential energy.
Other Options Explained
- **Option A:** Incorrect because it does not specify the reference point (infinity), which is essential for defining gravitational potential.
- **Option C:** While it mentions energy, it inaccurately describes the nature of work done. Gravitational potential is specifically about work done on a unit mass.
- **Option D:** Incorrect as option 'B' is indeed the correct answer.
Conclusion
Understanding gravitational potential is vital for grasping concepts in classical mechanics, as it helps predict the behavior of objects under the influence of gravity.