How Does Newton's Law of Gravitation Influence Modern Physics?

In summary, the conversation discusses the definition and standard meaning of "g" in relation to acceleration due to gravity. Dirac asks for a definition of "g" and is reminded that it is the acceleration due to gravity. The conversation then delves into the use of "g" in equations involving the Earth's mass and radius. The other person provides hints and clarifications, ultimately pointing out that the issue may lie in understanding the formal process rather than the concept itself.
  • #1
Dirac
19
0
:smile:

Dirac.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Well, what is the definition of "g"?
 
  • #3
It is true that "g" has units of force per mass, but that is not what I asked you about.

What is the standard meaning of "g"?
Hint: It has a name all by itself..
 
  • #4
No, it is called the "acceleration due to gravity".
Have you heard that expression before?
 
  • #5
You never said what "g" was, only A!
In your problem, it should be interpreted as the acceleration at the Earth's surface.

So, letting M be the Earth's mass, we have that g=M/R^2
Is that enough of a hint?
 
  • #6
I forgot it..
It should be g=GM/R^2
 
  • #7
I think the ingredient's you need are f=GmM/r/r Newtons law of gravity and f=ma then you prove the rest simply by definition of small g=a at r=R. You do a few substitutions and you are there. You are probably having problems with the formalism of the process?
 
  • #8
This has gone on for 6 responses now and I still wonder: What are you asking about Newton's law of gravity?
 

FAQ: How Does Newton's Law of Gravitation Influence Modern Physics?

What is Newton's Law of Gravitation?

Newton's Law of Gravitation states that every object in the universe is attracted to every other object with a force that is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

Who discovered Newton's Law of Gravitation?

Sir Isaac Newton discovered Newton's Law of Gravitation in the 17th century.

How does Newton's Law of Gravitation affect the motion of objects?

Newton's Law of Gravitation explains the force of gravity between two objects and how it affects their motion. This law states that objects with larger masses will exert a greater force of attraction on each other, and objects with smaller masses will experience a smaller force of attraction.

Is Newton's Law of Gravitation always accurate?

Newton's Law of Gravitation is a fundamental law of physics and has been proven to be accurate in most cases. However, it is not always accurate in extreme cases such as near the speed of light or on a quantum scale, where other laws of physics come into play.

How is Newton's Law of Gravitation related to Einstein's Theory of General Relativity?

Einstein's Theory of General Relativity built upon Newton's Law of Gravitation and provided a more complete understanding of gravity. It explains that gravity is not just a force between objects, but it is a curvature of space and time caused by the presence of mass and energy.

Similar threads

Replies
13
Views
587
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
25
Views
751
Replies
9
Views
1K
Replies
13
Views
992
Back
Top