Center of mass in a non-uniform gravitational field

[muhammadusman]

give answer to this question

 

[jmatejka]

Here is a simplified laymanized. answer given to me one time. Often for practical purposes, center of mass and center of gravity are considered the same on "earth".

If you were falling into a "black hole", pull of gravity on your feet may be much stronger than on your midsection. Midsection stays "center of mass". Feet become "center of gravity".

I'm sure you'll get a much better answer from others here.

 

[Naty1]

center of mass and center of gravity different in non uniform gravitation field?expl

yes.

The center of mass is often called the center of gravity, but this is only true in a system where the gravitational forces are uniform

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Center_of_mass

 

[muhammadusman]

u r right but can u tell me that where the gravitaional forces are uniform nd where are these forces nonuniform.

 

[arildno]

The centre of gravity is, essentially that point at which it can be regarded to be concentrated, for purposes of torque calculations.

If it exists, that is!

See my post here:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=95524