Mass of earth to use in calculation?

In summary, to use the mass of the Earth in a calculation for gravitational force between two objects, you need to plug it into the formula F=GM(1)M(2)/R^2, with M1 being the other object's mass and R being the distance between them. When entering the Earth's mass (5.9742 × 10^24 kg) into a calculator, use the "Exp" button to enter the exponent of 24.
  • #1
jillz
15
0
If the mass of the Earth = 5.9742 × 1024 kilograms
how do you use this in a calculation?

When trying to solve for gravitational force exerted between two objects, you need a M1 & M2. If the M2 is the mass of earth, how do you solve it?

M1 = 48.5 kg
M2 = 5.9742 × 1024 kg
distance between objects (r) = 11712.137

I have the numbers, but don't know what to do with the "earth mass".
 
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  • #2
plug into the formula:

F=GM(1)M(2)/R^2

simple as that.
 
  • #3
for Earth's mass: 5.9742 × 10^24

you need to type into your calculator 5.9742 Exp 24

i.e type 5.9742
then the button marked 'Exp'
then enter 24

You should then see the number displayed on the calculator screen something like this 5.9742__24
 

1. What is the mass of the Earth?

The mass of the Earth is approximately 5.97 x 10^24 kilograms. This is equivalent to about 13.2 x 10^24 pounds.

2. Why is it important to know the mass of the Earth?

The mass of the Earth is an important factor in many scientific calculations and studies, such as determining the gravitational pull of the Earth and understanding the Earth's rotation and orbit around the Sun. It also provides important information for studying the Earth's composition and structure.

3. How is the mass of the Earth calculated?

The mass of the Earth is calculated using a variety of methods, including measuring the gravitational pull on objects on the Earth's surface, studying the Earth's motion and orbit, and using satellite data. These methods are then combined and refined to obtain the most accurate estimate of the Earth's mass.

4. Does the mass of the Earth change?

The mass of the Earth does not change significantly, but it can vary slightly due to factors such as the movement of tectonic plates, the addition of meteorites and other cosmic debris, and changes in the Earth's atmosphere and oceans.

5. What is the unit of measurement for the mass of the Earth?

The unit of measurement for the mass of the Earth is kilograms. In scientific calculations, the mass of the Earth is often expressed in scientific notation, with the unit of kilograms represented as "kg".

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