How do I calculate the force of gravity on a 1-kg mass at Earth's surface?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the force of gravity on a 1-kg mass at Earth's surface, utilizing the universal law of gravitation. Participants reference the mass of Earth and its radius, along with the gravitational constant.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express confusion regarding the application of the gravitational constant and how to properly use the formula. There are questions about whether to solve the problem in full equational form or to simply plug in values.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on using the formula and confirmed the inclusion of the gravitational constant in the calculations. However, confusion remains regarding the steps to take and the interpretation of the variables involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the various figures and constants needed for the calculation, indicating a need for clarification on their roles in the formula.

LoveKnowledge
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1. Calculate the force of gravity on a 1-kg mass at Earth's surface. The mass of Earth is 6.0 x 10^24 kg, and its radius is 6.4 x 10^6 m.



2. F=G m1m2/d²



3. I am confused on how to solve this problem. I know the mass of Earth and its radius (the numbers needed to plug into the equation) but I am confused as I need to solve for the Universal Gravitational Contant as well? I am just confused with the different numbers and figures involved with this problem and would appreciate help if possible...thanks!
 
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gravitational constant = 6.67300 × 10^-11 m^3 kg^-1 s^-2
 
How do I use the Gravitational Constant to solve this problem? For some reason it is confusing me very much...do I solve the problem in entire equational form or do I actually solve for the equations?
 
All you need to do is plug the numbers into the formula (Newton's law of gravity) and use your calculator.
 
K. This also includes the known for G (universal gravitational constant) correct? THx again...just confused on this for some reason
 
LoveKnowledge said:
K. This also includes the known for G (universal gravitational constant) correct?
Sure. The formula includes the constant G, m1, m2, and d (which is the radius of the earth). You have all those values. Time to calculate!
 

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