Why can you not use the E mgh formula to calculate

Last updated: 6/15/2023

Why can you not use the E mgh formula to calculate gravitational potential energy of objects in space This formula indicates that in space where gravity is zero the potential energy of objects must be zero as well which is incorrect Gravitational potential energy decreases as you move further from the Earth s surface and at great heights such as space this formula shows an increase in potential energy Regardless of an object s distance from the Earth s surface gravitational potential energy is always a negative number and this formula is missing that sign In space the gravitational potential energy of an object does not depend on its mass