potentialenergien

Potentialenergien refers to the energy stored in a system due to its position or configuration. It is a property of the system’s state and a key component of mechanical energy. As a scalar function of generalized coordinates U(q), it is defined relative to a chosen reference point or reference configuration. Only changes in potential energy are observable; its absolute value depends on where the reference is set.

Common forms of potentialenergien include gravitational potential energy, elastic potential energy in springs, and electric potential energy. Gravitational potential energy near Earth's surface is U = m g h, where h is height. Elastic potential energy in a spring is U = 1/2 k x^2, with x the displacement from equilibrium. Electric potential energy between point charges is U = k q1 q2 / r, or more generally U = qV for a charge in an external field. Chemical potential energy arises from bonds and molecular configuration, contributing to the energy available for reactions. Other forms, such as magnetic or nuclear potential energy, appear in specific contexts.

The force associated with potentialenergien is given by F = −∇U. In one dimension, F = −dU/dx, meaning the force acts to decrease the potential energy. For conservative forces, mechanical energy is conserved: E = K + U remains constant when non-conservative work is absent.

Applications include potential energy curves and surfaces (potential energy landscapes) used to study molecular reactions, material properties, and dynamical systems. These concepts underpin energy transfer, stability analysis, and optimization across physics, chemistry, and engineering.