Does Uniform Gravity Equate the Center of Mass with the Center of Gravity?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving that an object's center of gravity coincides with its center of mass under the assumption of uniform gravity. The gravitational equation used is F = Gm1m2/r^2. Participants highlight that the center of mass differs from the center of gravity in non-uniform fields, particularly referencing Earth's gravitational field. A key point made is that demonstrating no net torque about the mass center is essential for establishing this proof.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational equations, specifically F = Gm1m2/r^2
  • Knowledge of calculus, particularly integration techniques for spherical shells
  • Familiarity with concepts of center of mass and center of gravity
  • Basic principles of torque and equilibrium in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of torque and its relation to center of mass
  • Explore advanced integration techniques in calculus, focusing on spherical coordinates
  • Research the differences between center of mass and center of gravity in non-uniform fields
  • Learn about gravitational fields and their effects on objects of varying mass distributions
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying mechanics, educators explaining gravitational concepts, and anyone interested in the mathematical proofs of physical principles.

Steve Cox
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Homework Statement


I wanted a proof that an object's center of gravity is the same as the center of mass by breaking the object into tiny pieces and then integrating over them.

Homework Equations


Well, the gravitational equation g=Gm1m2/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried using some calc three to integrate a uniform sphere using spherical shells. However, my answer wasn't working out and I would like a much more general proof.

Well, I just learned that the center of mass is different from the center of gravity of Earth because the gravitational field isn't uniform. Assuming gravity is uniform, how can we prove that the sum of all of the gravities are as gravity as a whole were acting on its center of mass?
coolbob13579@gmail.com
 
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Steve Cox said:
the center of mass is different from the center of gravity of earth
The centre of mass of a body is different from its centre of gravity in a non-uniform field. I don't know why you wrote "of earth" at the end. If Earth is the body, is it the sun's field?
Steve Cox said:
Assuming gravity is uniform, how can we prove that the sum of all of the gravities are as gravity as a whole were acting on its center of mass?
You would need to show that there is no net torque about the mass centre. It is not difficult.
 
2
Steve Cox said:

Homework Statement


I wanted a proof that an object's center of gravity is the same as the center of mass by breaking the object into tiny pieces and then integrating over them.

Homework Equations


Well, the gravitational equation g=Gm1m2/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried using some calc three to integrate a uniform sphere using spherical shells. However, my answer wasn't working out and I would like a much more general proof.

Well, I just learned that the center of mass is different from the center of gravity of Earth because the gravitational field isn't uniform. Assuming gravity is uniform, how can we prove that the sum of all of the gravities are as gravity as a whole were acting on its center of mass?
coolbob13579@gmail.com
The 'gravitational equation is F = Gm1m2/r^2
 

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