Gravitational force between the moon and the Earth

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The gravitational force between the Earth and the Moon is equal in magnitude but opposite in direction, as per Newton's Third Law of Motion. The formula F = GMm/r², where G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the Earth, m is the mass of the Moon, and r is the distance between their centers, confirms this relationship. Both bodies exert equal gravitational forces on each other due to their masses and the distance separating them. This fundamental principle of physics underpins the interactions between celestial bodies.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with gravitational force calculations
  • Basic knowledge of mass and distance in physics
  • Concept of action and reaction forces
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Newton's three laws of motion in detail
  • Explore gravitational force calculations using different celestial bodies
  • Investigate the implications of gravitational forces on orbital mechanics
  • Learn about the gravitational constant (G) and its significance in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching gravitational concepts, and anyone interested in understanding celestial mechanics and the forces acting between astronomical bodies.

Victorian91
Messages
18
Reaction score
0
Hi, I am just wandering based on the formula..

F = GMm/r^2


Is the gravitational force exerted by the Earth on the moon is the same as the gravitational force exerted by the moon on Earth ?

It should be the same right?
Both lies on a same radius..

Can someone clarify this..

Thanks..
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hint

Look up Newton's laws on Google. You should easily be able to figure it out looking an Newton's three laws of motion.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
10K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
1K
  • · Replies 58 ·
2
Replies
58
Views
6K
  • · Replies 38 ·
2
Replies
38
Views
3K
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
2K
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K