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How did we measure the gravitational constant G = 2.034 x 10 ^ 17 cm ^ 2 and the Earth average density (specific gravity) p = 3.45 g / cm ^ 2 s ^ 2.
The gravitational constant, G, was measured by Henry Cavendish as 2.034 x 1017 cm2 s-2 through a torsion balance experiment involving lead spheres. The torque induced by the gravitational force on a wire was calculated using the formula τθ = GMm/r2 * l, leading to the determination of G as G = τθr2/Mml. The discussion also highlights the discrepancies in gravitational force calculations, specifically noting that the force between two 1.0 g balls at a distance of 1.0 cm was found to be 1.0847 x 10-10 gcm/s2, significantly lower than the expected value of 6.6742 x 10-8 gcm/s2.
PREREQUISITESPhysicists, students of physics, and anyone interested in experimental methods for measuring fundamental constants in physics.
PhysicoRaj said:The gravitational constant was measured by Henry Cavendish, using a setup, like this:
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When the lead spheres are moved the gravitational force acting on the other set of spheres induces a force on the wire which twists, and the restoring torque can be equated to the gravitational force as follows:
torque = force * length
τθ=GMm/r2]*l
(where l is the length of bar, τ is the torque per unit angle of twist, θ is the angle of twist caused by the force).
So,
G=τθr2/Mml
θ, angle of twist can be measured by many methods.( in the figure it is measured by laser, and hence u see a mirror).