Gravitational Constant: Earth vs Other Planets

In summary, the gravitational constant, G, which appears in Newton's law of Universal Gravity, can be used for all planets. This is because it is known as the Universal Gravitational constant. On the other hand, small g, the acceleration due to gravity, only applies near the Earth's surface.
  • #1
Emz19
11
0
Quick question... Can the gravitational constant only be used for Earth or can it be used in questions regarding other planets?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Emz19 said:
Quick question... Can the gravitational constant only be used for Earth or can it be used in questions regarding other planets?
Are you talking about G, the constant that appears in Newton's law of Universal Gravity? If so, then yes, it applies generally.

On the other hand, small g, the acceleration due to gravity, only applies near the Earth's surface.
 
  • Like
Likes 1 person
  • #3
Thanks a mil!
Ya I was talking about G in Newton's Law of Universal Gravity. So I can use G ( 6.67×10−11 N m2/ kg2 ) for all planets. Thank you for your help Doc
 
  • #5


The gravitational constant, denoted by G, is a fundamental physical constant that is used to calculate the force of gravity between two objects. It is a universal constant that applies to all objects with mass, not just Earth. Therefore, it can be used in calculations for any planet or celestial body.

The value of the gravitational constant does not change based on the planet or object being studied. However, the force of gravity between two objects will vary depending on their masses and the distance between them. This means that the gravitational constant will be used in different equations depending on the specific scenario being studied.

In summary, the gravitational constant can be used in questions regarding any planet or celestial body, as it is a universal constant that applies to all objects with mass.
 

1. What is the gravitational constant?

The gravitational constant, denoted by G, is a fundamental physical constant that represents the strength of the gravitational force between two objects. It is a key factor in determining the gravitational force between any two objects in the universe.

2. How does the gravitational constant vary between Earth and other planets?

The gravitational constant is the same for all objects in the universe and does not vary between Earth and other planets. However, the gravitational force experienced by an object depends on the mass and distance of the other object it is interacting with. Therefore, the gravitational force experienced on different planets may vary due to differences in their mass and distance from the sun.

3. Why is the gravitational constant important?

The gravitational constant is important because it allows us to understand and calculate the force of gravity between any two objects. This is crucial for understanding the motion of planets, stars, and other celestial bodies in the universe.

4. How is the gravitational constant measured?

The gravitational constant is measured through experiments using a device called a torsion balance. This device measures the twisting force on a wire caused by the gravitational attraction between two masses placed at a specific distance from each other.

5. Does the gravitational constant change over time?

According to current scientific understanding, the gravitational constant is a fixed value and does not change over time. However, some theories suggest that the constant may vary in different regions of the universe or in the early stages of the universe's formation.

Similar threads

Replies
21
Views
1K
Replies
54
Views
2K
Replies
22
Views
1K
Replies
15
Views
1K
  • Classical Physics
Replies
2
Views
641
  • Classical Physics
Replies
25
Views
2K
Replies
22
Views
659
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Classical Physics
Replies
16
Views
805
Replies
5
Views
1K
Back
Top