Universal gravitational potential energy

The formula $E_\text{pot} = mgh$ only holds for small height differences near the ground. For a body that moves far away from the Earth, we need the general expression for gravitational potential energy, which is negative and depends on $1/d$. This section introduces it, explains its negative sign, and shows how it connects with $mgh$ near the surface.

• Universal gravitational potential energy
• Connecting with mgh near the surface