Does an Apple’s Gravity Influence Earth’s Movement?

AI Thread Summary
An apple falling to the ground does exert a gravitational pull on the Earth, theoretically shortening the distance it falls. However, this effect is negligible compared to the Earth's mass, making it impractical to consider in physics problems. The simplification of ignoring the Earth's movement helps students focus on fundamental concepts without overwhelming them with complex calculations. Nonetheless, it's important to acknowledge that both the apple and the Earth experience gravitational forces that affect each other. Understanding this interaction can enhance comprehension of gravitational principles.
mtasquared
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When an apple falls to the ground does it not exert some gravity of it's own on the Earth and thus shortening the distance it falls? Why is it always assumed the Earth does not itself move in physics problems?
 
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mtasquared said:
When an apple falls to the ground does it not exert some gravity of it's own on the Earth and thus shortening the distance it falls?
Sure.
Why is it always assumed the Earth does not itself move in physics problems?
Estimate the Earth's acceleration due to the apple's gravitational pull. Then you'll see why it's ignored.
 
mtasquared said:
When an apple falls to the ground does it not exert some gravity of it's own on the Earth and thus shortening the distance it falls? Why is it always assumed the Earth does not itself move in physics problems?

The idea of ignoring negligible calculations is to make it easier for students who are introduced to these concepts to make the calculations. However I think it should still be said to the students that the apple is causing the Earth to undergo a very very very small acceleration, so that they can be reminded that forces affect both objects.
 
Thanks for replying!
 

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