Calculate the total force on the Earth

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    Earth Force
In summary, the total force on the Earth due to Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn can be calculated using the equation F = Gm1 m2/r^2, where G is the gravitational constant and m1 and m2 are the masses of the two objects. The masses of Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn are given as a ratio to the mass of the Earth (MV=0.815ME, MJ=318ME, MSat=95.1ME), and the distances of the planets from the Sun are also given (108, 150, 778, and 1430 million km). By plugging these values into the equation and adding them together, we can calculate the total force on the Earth. It is important
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anajonicholson
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Homework Statement
Calculate the total force on the Earth due to Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn, assuming all four planets are in a line, as shown in the figure. The masses are MV=0.815ME, MJ=318ME, MSat=95.1ME, and the mean distances of the four planets from the Sun are 108, 150, 778, and 1430 million km
Relevant Equations
I was not given relevant equations, but I am assuming it is F = Gm1 m2/r^2
I am confused how I am supposed to figure out the answer if I do not know the mass of the earth? Do I just set it to 1 and use m1 and m2 as ratios?
 
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  • #2
anajonicholson said:
Homework Statement:: Calculate the total force on the Earth due to Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn, assuming all four planets are in a line, as shown in the figure. The masses are MV=0.815ME, MJ=318ME, MSat=95.1ME, and the mean distances of the four planets from the Sun are 108, 150, 778, and 1430 million km
Relevant Equations:: I was not given relevant equations, but I am assuming it is F = Gm1 m2/r^2

I am confused how I am supposed to figure out the answer if I do not know the mass of the earth? Do I just set it to 1 and use m1 and m2 as ratios?
Welcome to PF.

Yeah, I would start by doing that, then look up ME online and plug that into the final equation to get the total force. Can you show us that work?
 
  • #3
Are all the planets on the same side of the Sun? You did not post the picture that goes with this. Also, don't expect a physics problem to give you the relevant equations for each problem separately. You are supposed to find which equation(s) is (are) relevant by reading the book. Nevertheless, you are supposed to post what you think is appropriate to make sure that you have thought about the problem and have done some background work. It seems that you have done that.
 
  • #4
It is the weakest force in nature. The strength of the gravitational force is proportional to the product of the masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. so you can simply put values and add them all together.
 

1. How is the total force on the Earth calculated?

The total force on the Earth is calculated by using Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation, which states that the force between two objects is directly proportional to their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

2. What factors contribute to the total force on the Earth?

The total force on the Earth is primarily influenced by the mass of the Earth and the mass of the object exerting the force, as well as the distance between them. Other factors such as the gravitational pull of other celestial bodies and the Earth's rotation also play a role.

3. How does the total force on the Earth affect its orbit?

The total force on the Earth determines its orbital path around the sun. If the force were to change, the Earth's orbit would also change. However, the force is balanced by the Earth's own inertia, which keeps it in a relatively stable orbit.

4. Can the total force on the Earth be measured?

Yes, the total force on the Earth can be measured using various methods, such as using satellite data and gravitational models. However, it is important to note that the force is constantly changing due to the movement of celestial bodies.

5. How does the total force on the Earth impact life on the planet?

The total force on the Earth plays a crucial role in sustaining life on the planet. It helps to maintain the Earth's atmosphere, regulate its temperature, and provide the necessary conditions for life to thrive. Without the force, the Earth would not be able to support life as we know it.

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