- #1
cassiek
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Does it apply to planets other than Earth? I'm just learning (cramming) this stuff; sorry if it's a dumb question.
The Universal Gravitational Constant G
- Thread starter cassiek
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In summary, the Universal Gravitational Constant G is a fundamental constant that represents the strength of the gravitational force between two objects with mass. It was first discovered by Sir Isaac Newton in 1687 and has a value of approximately 6.674 x 10^-11 m^3 kg^-1 s^-2. It is important in understanding gravity and is used in various calculations in science, such as predicting the motion of celestial bodies and measuring the mass of objects in the universe. The value of G is the same everywhere in the universe, but can vary depending on the units of measurement used, which include cubic meters per kilogram per second squared, newtons per square meter per kilogram, and joules per kilogram.
- #2
tiny-tim
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hi cassiek! 
that's what "universal" means! …
it does exactly what it says on the tin!
that's what "universal" means! …
it does exactly what it says on the tin!
- #3
cassiek
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haha that's what I thought, just checking! Thanks :)
FAQ: The Universal Gravitational Constant G
What is the Universal Gravitational Constant G?
The Universal Gravitational Constant G is a fundamental constant that represents the strength of the gravitational force between two objects with mass. It is denoted by the letter G and has a value of approximately 6.674 x 10^-11 m^3 kg^-1 s^-2.
How was the Universal Gravitational Constant G discovered?
The Universal Gravitational Constant G was first discovered by Sir Isaac Newton in 1687 through his work on the laws of motion and universal gravitation. He used his law of gravitation, which states that the force of attraction between two objects is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them, to calculate the value of G.
Why is the Universal Gravitational Constant G important?
The Universal Gravitational Constant G is important because it helps us understand the force of gravity between objects with mass. It plays a crucial role in many areas of science, including astronomy, physics, and engineering. It is also used in various calculations, such as determining the orbits of planets and satellites, predicting the motion of celestial bodies, and measuring the mass of the Earth and other objects in the universe.
Is the value of the Universal Gravitational Constant G the same everywhere in the universe?
Yes, the value of the Universal Gravitational Constant G is the same everywhere in the universe. This means that the force of gravity between two objects with mass remains constant, regardless of their location in the universe. However, the value of G can vary depending on the units of measurement used.
What are the units of measurement for the Universal Gravitational Constant G?
The units of measurement for the Universal Gravitational Constant G are cubic meters per kilogram per second squared (m^3 kg^-1 s^-2). This unit is derived from Newton's law of gravitation, where G is multiplied by the masses of the two objects and divided by the square of the distance between them. Other commonly used units for G include newtons per square meter per kilogram (N m^2 kg^-2) and joules per kilogram (J kg^-1).