1. Potential Energy Functions Chapter C7

2. What is a Potential Energy Function? A function that depends on a specific interaction type. As we will see in Unit N – potential energy functions can be defined only for special kinds of interactions (conservative ones) A mathematical expression (function) that enables us to express potential energy as a function of location in space

3. Examples… Gravitational Electrostatic Spring Two-minute problems

4. Gravitational Potential Energy Interaction type: Fundamental – gravity Mathematical Form (Newtonian) Special case : Go to VPython programVPython program

5. Electrostatic Potential Energy Interaction type: Fundamental – electromagnetic Mathematical Form Go to VPython programVPython program

6. Spring Potential Energy Interaction type: Non-Fundamental – contact Mathematical Form Go to VPython programVPython program

7. What good are they? In classical physics they play a critical role in applying energy conservation to specific cases In quantum physics this role continues but, if anything, is enhanced. As we will see next term, applying the Schroedinger Equation entails selecting the correct potential energy function