It is all about that r^2 term. If you know M (mass of planet) but don't know r (the radius of the planet - distance from centre to the surface), how do you find a (= GM/r^2) at the surface?dinhjeffrey said:Homework Statement
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#13
Homework Equations
m=F/a
F=g(m1m2)/r^2
The Attempt at a Solution
well, the answer is D, but I am not sure how a planet's size can affect an object's weight on there. I am guessing you have to use the gravitational constant. I am guessing you plug in the planets weight and the objects weight into m1 and m2 of gravitational constant?
The gravitational constant, denoted as G, is a physical constant that is used to measure the strength of the gravitational force between two objects. It is a fundamental constant in the study of gravity and is an important factor in many equations and theories in physics.
The gravitational constant is typically measured using experiments such as the Cavendish experiment or the Schiehallion experiment. These experiments involve measuring the gravitational force between two masses at a known distance and using this information to calculate the value of G.
The gravitational constant is important because it helps us understand and predict the behavior of objects in the universe. It is a key factor in the law of universal gravitation and is used in many equations and theories related to gravity and the motion of objects.
Yes, the gravitational constant is considered to be a universal constant, meaning that its value is the same throughout the universe. However, there have been some theories and studies that suggest that the value of G may vary slightly in certain circumstances.
The current accepted value for the gravitational constant is approximately 6.67408 x 10^-11 m^3 kg^-1 s^-2. However, there is still some uncertainty in this value and it is an area of ongoing research and study in the scientific community.