Gravitational Force: Calculations & Examples

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem with trivial algebra involving F_g = (G*M_1*M_2)/r^2. The expert suggests multiplying both sides by r^2 and cancelling out the r^2 on the right hand side to isolate F_g. This results in r^2 = (G*M_1*M_2)/F_g. The expert also mentions that similar operations can be done to isolate other quantities needed.
  • #1
DarkIndiglo
2
0
See Attached Word Document :smile:
 

Attachments

  • Rearrange Help.doc
    23.5 KB · Views: 228
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
This is pretty trivial algebra. If you are having trouble with this you need to find some help with your math.


[tex] F_g = \frac {G M_1 M_2} {r^2} [/tex]

I will do r^2 for you, you should be able to puzzle out the rest.
Multiply both sides by [itex] r^2 [/itex]
[tex] F_g r^2 = \frac {G M_1 M_2 r^2} {r^2} [/tex]

Cancel the [itex] r^2 [/itex] in the Right hand side.

[tex] F_g r^2 = G M_1 M_2 [/tex]

Now divide both sides by [itex] F_g [/itex]

[tex] \frac {F_g r^2 } {F_g} = \frac {G M_1 M_2} {F_g} [/tex]

Now cancel the [itex] F_g [/itex] in the Left hand side to get

[tex] r^2 = \frac {G M_1 M_2} {F_g} [/tex]

Similar operations will isolate the other quantities you need.
 
  • #3
Hehe
Thanks alot, I just couldn't seem to rearrange this :smile:
 

FAQ: Gravitational Force: Calculations & Examples

What is gravitational force?

Gravitational force is a natural phenomenon that describes the attractive force between two objects with mass. It is responsible for keeping planets in orbit around the sun and objects on Earth from floating away into space.

How is gravitational force calculated?

The gravitational force between two objects can be calculated using the equation F = G (m1m2)/r^2, where G is the gravitational constant, m1 and m2 are the masses of the two objects, and r is the distance between them.

What is the unit of measurement for gravitational force?

The unit of measurement for gravitational force is Newtons (N). This unit is named after Sir Isaac Newton, who first described the theory of gravity.

Can you provide an example of gravitational force?

An example of gravitational force is the force that keeps the moon in orbit around the Earth. The Earth's gravitational pull on the moon keeps it in a constant circular path around the Earth.

How does distance affect gravitational force?

According to the equation F = G (m1m2)/r^2, the force of gravity decreases as the distance between two objects increases. This means that the farther apart two objects are, the weaker their gravitational force will be.

Back
Top