How do different bodies in the Solar System affect Earth's gravitational pull?

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    Gravity Measuring
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SUMMARY

The gravitational effects of celestial bodies such as Mars, Venus, and Jupiter on Earth are measurable but generally insignificant compared to the Sun and the Moon. While most planets have a minimal impact on Earth's trajectory, their gravitational forces can still be calculated using models based on the laws of physics. These models allow scientists to simulate the interactions between Earth and other bodies, providing insights into how the removal of a planet like Jupiter or Saturn would affect Earth's motion. Accurate modeling is essential for understanding these complex gravitational relationships.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational forces and barycenters
  • Familiarity with celestial mechanics and orbital dynamics
  • Proficiency in using physics-based modeling software
  • Knowledge of the mass and distance of celestial bodies, particularly Jupiter
NEXT STEPS
  • Research gravitational modeling techniques in celestial mechanics
  • Learn about the laws of physics relevant to gravitational interactions
  • Explore software tools for simulating planetary motion
  • Investigate the specific gravitational effects of Jupiter on Earth
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students of physics interested in understanding the gravitational interactions between Earth and other celestial bodies in the Solar System.

Gaz1982
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Of course our gravitational relationship with the Sun and our own Moon are understood, but to what extent can we measure even the faintest attraction with other bodies in the Solar System.

How do Mars, Venus and Jupiter effect Earth?

Do we have Barycenters with these bodies and others more remote?
 
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Have you tried to calculate the gravitational force between Jupiter and the earth? Perhaps compared it to the moon and the earth? The mass of Jupiter and the distance can be found online.
 
When a third source of gravity is added and calculated for, the whole system's motions become really complicated. Usually, a computer is used to make such calculations. But sometimes, if the third object is really tiny or far away, it can be ignored, and the trajectories can still be reliably predicted and followed.

Most planets have an insignificant impact on Earth's trajectory, even Jupiter, but they can still be calculated.
 
Gaz1982 said:
Of course our gravitational relationship with the Sun and our own Moon are understood, but to what extent can we measure even the faintest attraction with other bodies in the Solar System.

We can't really directly measure the force. Instead, one way we can see the effect is to build a model using the laws of physics and compare our model to the motion of the Earth, Moon, and other bodies. If our model accurately matches our observations, we can say our model is a good model that accurately describes the interaction between the bodies within the limits of the model. We can then manipulate this model and see what happens when we take out Jupiter or Saturn or another body. Comparing the two scenarios tells us the effect those bodies have on us.

In essence, our 'measurement' uses the motion of the planets themselves over a long period of time.
 
Drakkith said:
We can't really directly measure the force. Instead, one way we can see the effect is to build a model using the laws of physics and compare our model to the motion of the Earth, Moon, and other bodies. If our model accurately matches our observations, we can say our model is a good model that accurately describes the interaction between the bodies within the limits of the model. We can then manipulate this model and see what happens when we take out Jupiter or Saturn or another body. Comparing the two scenarios tells us the effect those bodies have on us.

In essence, our 'measurement' uses the motion of the planets themselves over a long period of time.
Thank you
 

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