Homework Help Overview
The discussion revolves around calculating the acceleration of the Earth due to the gravitational interaction with a free-falling 60-kg person, given the mass of the Earth as 6 x 10^24 kg. The original poster questions the validity of the resulting acceleration value of 10^(-22) m/s^2, expressing that it seems unusual.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Assumption checking
Approaches and Questions Raised
- Participants discuss the application of Newton's second law and question the appropriateness of the equations used for the scenario. Some participants inquire about the gravitational attraction equation and whether the assumption of constant gravitational acceleration (g) is valid for the given situation.
Discussion Status
The discussion is active, with participants exploring different equations and interpretations of the problem. There is a suggestion to consider an alternative equation for gravitational attraction, indicating a productive direction in the conversation.
Contextual Notes
Participants note the potential relevance of the distance from the Earth's surface in determining the validity of the calculations, as well as the implications of assuming g is constant.