The gravitational force exerted by the Sun on the Earth is equal to the gravitational force exerted by the Earth on the Sun, as established by Newton's third law of motion. This relationship can be quantified using the formula F = GM1M2/r^2, where G is the gravitational constant, M1 is the mass of the Sun, M2 is the mass of the Earth, and r is the distance between their centers. The symmetry in the equation confirms that both forces are identical in magnitude but opposite in direction, reinforcing the principle that every action has an equal and opposite reaction.
PREREQUISITESStudents of physics, educators teaching gravitational concepts, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamental forces governing celestial mechanics.
They're the same, i.e. wherever there is an action there is an equal and opposite reaction. You should look at the symmetry of F=GM1M2/r^2.atomant said:Which, if either, is greater: the gravitational force of the sun on the Earth, or the Earth on the sun? How should I be looking at this question i.e in terms of the radius of each object through the equation F=GM1M2/r^2 ?