Difference between F=GMm/r^2 and g=Gm/r^2

[hmvince]

Homework Statement

I have been studying satellite motion and have come across 2 equations:
eq1. F=GMm/r^2
eq2. a=Gm/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution

By using Newton's second law, F=ma, we convert eq1. to eq2. Obviously one gives the Force and the other acceleration but what is the difference and when should I use each one?

 

[tiny-tim]

welcome to pf!

hi hmvince! welcome to pf!

(try using the X² icon just above the Reply box )

there's no difference … as you say, they're equivalent …

use whichever is most convenient (which however will almost always be the acceleration one)!

 

[hmvince]

Clever, r²
Thanks for the reply, I'll keep that in mind!

 

[hmvince]

Also, what is the difference between force and acceleration?

 

[tiny-tim]

Also, what is the difference between force and acceleration?

you know that …

force = mass times acceleratiom,

so acceleration = force per mass