---
tag: 0H7C3T1GJY
kind: concept
name: Scalar potential
aliases: [potential-function]
msc: [26B12]
uses: [0PKG97PX9Y, 0ABK9V9Y64]
sources:
  - url: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scalar_potential
    locator: lead section
same_as:
  wikidata: Q1856609
  wikipedia: Scalar potential
---

## Summary

A scalar potential of a vector field is a scalar function whose [[gradient|0ABK9V9Y64]] is the field, or minus the field in the physics convention.
A field has a scalar potential exactly when it is [[conservative|0PKG97PX9Y]].