geopotenciált

Geopotential is a scalar quantity that represents the potential energy of a unit mass at a specific point within a gravitational field relative to a reference point. In essence, it measures how much work is required to move a unit mass from a reference level to that point against the force of gravity. The geopotential is not a physical potential but rather a concept used in fields like geodesy and geophysics.

The geopotential at a point is often defined by the gravitational potential at that point plus the potential due to the Earth's rotation. The Earth's gravitational field is not uniform; it varies due to factors such as the uneven distribution of mass within the Earth. Therefore, the geopotential is not constant across the Earth's surface.

A geopotential surface, also known as an equipotential surface, is a surface where the geopotential has the same value at all points. Gravitational force at any point is perpendicular to the equipotential surface passing through that point. The geoid, which represents mean sea level extended globally, is an example of an equipotential surface. Understanding geopotential is crucial for tasks such as determining the height of mountains, the depth of oceans, and the behavior of satellites.