Acceleration on the Moon: How Does Gravity Affect Objects?

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    Acceleration Moon
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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the effects of gravity on acceleration, specifically in the context of the Moon's gravitational force compared to Earth. Participants are examining the relationship between weight, mass, and acceleration in a physics problem involving a ball and a spring.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the calculation of acceleration due to gravity and its implications for the motion of the ball. There is a focus on distinguishing between different forces acting on the ball, such as gravitational force and the force from the spring. Questions arise about the appropriate formulas to use for better understanding the situation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants acknowledging misunderstandings and seeking clarification on the concepts involved. Some guidance has been offered regarding the distinction between different forces, and there is an interest in finding a formula to aid understanding.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information they can use or the methods they can apply. There is an emphasis on understanding the underlying physics rather than simply arriving at a solution.

ravsterphysics
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Homework Statement


1.JPG


Homework Equations


F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution


I know it's either B or D

Weight = mg so let's say mass of ball is 11kg and gravity on moon is 6, so weight would be 66N

since acceleration a = F/m and we can say that F=mg

therefore a = mg / m which leaves: a=g

and because on the moon the gravity is less this means acceleration is less...yet this is wrong and the answer is D??
 
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You calculated the acceleration due to gravity, not the acceleration of the ball due to the force of the spring. One acts downward and the other upward.
 
Janus said:
You calculated the acceleration due to gravity, not the acceleration of the ball due to the force of the spring. One acts downward and the other upward.

Yep, I completely glossed over that, thanks.

Intuitively it makes sense now, but is there a formula I can use to get a better understanding?
 
ravsterphysics said:
Yep, I completely glossed over that, thanks.

Intuitively it makes sense now, but is there a formula I can use to get a better understanding?
∑F = ma
 

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