Potentialens

Potentialens is a theoretical construct used in some physics-inspired models and speculative literature to denote a family of potential-like quantities that govern state transitions in a system. Unlike a single potential energy function, potentialens comprise multiple scalar fields that interact and vary across configuration space, aimed at capturing conservative tendencies, constraints, and external influences on dynamics.

Mathematically, a potentialen is a collection of smooth functions V_i: X -> R defined on a configuration space X. Each V_i assigns a potential-like value to a state, with gradients ∇V_i indicating directions of increasing potential. A system’s evolution may be described by a combination of gradient-like terms and non-conservative forces, e.g., dx/dt = -∑ c_i ∇V_i(x) + F_nc(x,t), where c_i are weights and F_nc represents non-conservative effects.

Key properties include the formation of basins of attraction, saddle regions, and transition barriers arising from the landscape defined by the V_i. Potentialens generalize classical potential energy landscapes by permitting multiple interacting potentials, time dependence, and context-specific couplings. They are used conceptually to study metastability and transition pathways, while remaining distinct from standard energy functionals in established theories.

Applications span physics-inspired modeling, where potentialens compare influence of different interaction channels; in cognitive or ecological modeling as abstract decision or fitness landscapes; and in fiction for world-building as a dynamic landscape guiding agents toward outcomes.