Calculating Weight at Different Altitudes Using Gravitational Acceleration

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The gravitational acceleration at the International Space Station is approximately 9.1 m/s², which is 93% of the Earth's surface value of 9.81 m/s². To calculate the weight of a 72 kg astronaut at this altitude, the formula w = mg is used, where m is mass and g is gravitational acceleration. The astronaut's weight at this altitude would be 72 kg multiplied by 9.1 m/s², resulting in approximately 655.2 N. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding gravitational variations at different altitudes. Overall, the calculations demonstrate how weight changes with altitude due to differences in gravitational acceleration.
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Homework Statement



The gravitational acceleration at the International Space Station’s altitude is about 93% of its surface value.

What’s the weight of a 72 kg astronaut at this altitude?

Homework Equations



w=mg
where w is weight
m is the mass
g is the gravity's acceleration

The Attempt at a Solution



mass is given as 72kg

I know the station is a satellite in space. but how do i go about finding acceleration? any tips would be helpful.
 
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warnexus said:
I know the station is a satellite in space. but how do i go about finding acceleration?
What's the 'surface value' of the acceleration due to gravity?
 
Doc Al said:
What's the 'surface value' of the acceleration due to gravity?

well i know acceleration due to gravity is 9.81 meters per second every second. Ah so that's what they are asking! I got it! =]
 
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