Gravity on mass on earth's surface vs sun-earth gravity

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around calculating the gravitational force exerted by the Sun and the Moon on a 5.000 kg mass located on the Earth's surface during a solar eclipse. The gravitational force from the Moon (Fm) is correctly calculated as Fm = mg = 5 kg * 9.8 m/s², resulting in 49 N. The gravitational force from the Sun (Fs) is derived using the formula Fs = (mass of the Sun * mass of the object) / R², where R is the distance from the Sun to the Earth. The user is guided to focus on the ratio Fs / Fm, emphasizing the need to differentiate between the forces acting on the mass.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation
  • Basic knowledge of gravitational force calculations
  • Familiarity with the concept of gravitational acceleration (9.8 m/s²)
  • Knowledge of the mass of the Sun and its distance from the Earth
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the gravitational force exerted by the Sun on a mass using the formula Fs = (mass of the Sun * mass of the object) / R²
  • Explore the gravitational force exerted by the Moon on a mass and its implications
  • Research the effects of solar eclipses on gravitational forces
  • Investigate the differences in gravitational forces from various celestial bodies
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, educators teaching gravitational concepts, and anyone interested in celestial mechanics and gravitational interactions.

ninjagowoowoo
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Q:
A mass of 5.000 kg is sitting on the Earth's surface directly under the sun during a solar eclipse. The sun exerts a gravitational force with magnitude Fs on the mass. The moon's gravitational force on the mass has magnitude Fm. Calculate the ratio Fs / Fm.

This problem is really frustrating me. For the object, wouldn't Fm be mg = 5*9.8?

Then wouldn't the Fs be (mass of the sun)(mass of earth)/R^2 ?

So wouldn't it be the Fs divided by Fm? Please help??!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You are being asked to calculate the ratio of the forces of attraction to the sun and to the moon for a mass that is at the surface of the earth. You are not asked for the force of attraction to the earth.
 
HAH wow I'm embarassed... thanks :blushing:
 

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