Why is Gravitational Potential Energy Negative?
Gravitational potential energy is negative because energy decreases as you get closer to a massive object. Negative sign = more realistic math!
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It's negative because as objects come closer due to gravity, they release energy. Think of it as nature's way of balancing the books!
From personal experience with physics classes, it's negative 'cause it makes the equations work out correctly. Gotta love those sign conventions!
Gravitational potential energy is considered negative because we measure it relative to a point at infinity, where the energy is zero. Basically, moving towards the center of gravity requires energy to be released, not stored!
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