Force of Gravity of Al on Mt. Everest

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Homework Help Overview

This discussion revolves around calculating the force of gravity acting on an individual named Al, who is positioned at the summit of Mt. Everest, which is 8,848 meters high. The problem involves the mass of Al, the mass of the Earth, and the radius of the Earth, applying the gravitational force formula.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the correct application of the gravitational force formula and question whether the distance used in the calculation should include both the height of Mt. Everest and the Earth's radius. There is also a consideration of the expected weight of Al at sea level compared to his weight at the mountain's summit.

Discussion Status

Some participants have confirmed the correctness of the equation used for calculating the force of gravity, while others have raised questions about the accuracy of the values and the implications of significant figures. The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking reassurance about their calculations and assumptions.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the nuances of gravitational calculations, including the impact of altitude on weight and the significance of using precise measurements in their computations.

thelightsare
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Homework Statement


In this problem find the force of gravity of Al. Al is standing at the top of Mt. Everest at an elevation of 8,848 m. Al has a mass of 58 kg. The Earth has a mass of 5.97e24 and a radius of 6.38e6m. What is the force of gravity acting on Al?


Homework Equations



F = GMm/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution


the dist. used to find F is from Al to the Earth's center ?
so r = 8848+6.38e6 ?
then plug in values

F = G 58(5.97e24)/(8848+6.38e6)^2
F[tex]\approx[/tex]569.385 N?

Is this right? I feel like I'm missing soemthing
 
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thelightsare said:

Homework Statement


In this problem find the force of gravity of Al. Al is standing at the top of Mt. Everest at an elevation of 8,848 m. Al has a mass of 58 kg. The Earth has a mass of 5.97e24 and a radius of 6.38e6m. What is the force of gravity acting on Al?


Homework Equations



F = GMm/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution


the dist. used to find F is from Al to the Earth's center ?
so r = 8848+6.38e6 ?
then plug in values

F = G 58(5.97e24)/(8848+6.38e6)^2
F[tex]\approx[/tex]569.385 N?

Is this right? I feel like I'm missing soemthing
Hi, welcome to PF! Your equation is correct, but perhaps the values you are using are a bit off, since Al would weigh about 569 N at sea level, (more or less, depending on variabilities in Earth's radius, etc), then he should weigh a wee bit less atop the Mount. But in terms of significant figures, essentially, he weighs pretty much about the same on top as he does at the bottom.
 
Hi! Thanks you for the welcome and your help. And just for reassurance, for r was i right to add the two values together?
 
thelightsare said:
Hi! Thanks you for the welcome and your help. And just for reassurance, for r was i right to add the two values together?
Yes, the distance apart is measured to Earth's center.
 
Thanks so much!
 

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