The Difference between Acceleration Due to Gravity and the Force Due to Gravity?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinction between acceleration due to gravity and force due to gravity. Acceleration due to gravity, a constant value of 9.8 m/s², represents the rate of change of velocity for objects near the Earth's surface. In contrast, the force due to gravity varies based on the mass of the object, exemplified by the difference in gravitational force experienced by two individuals of different weights standing on the same surface. Understanding these concepts is essential for grasping fundamental physics principles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with gravitational concepts
  • Knowledge of mass and weight definitions
  • Understanding of acceleration as a physical quantity
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Newton's law of universal gravitation
  • Explore the implications of gravitational acceleration in different celestial bodies
  • Learn about the relationship between mass, weight, and gravitational force
  • Investigate the effects of gravity on projectile motion
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators explaining gravitational concepts, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of motion and force.

AirHendrix
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I have a question: What is the Difference between Acceleration Due to Gravity and the Force Due to Gravity?






I know the force due to gravity is the force of gravitation on an object on or near the surface of a celestial body but I have no idea how to describe the actual acceleration due to gravity.
 
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AirHendrix said:
I have a question: What is the Difference between Acceleration Due to Gravity and the Force Due to Gravity?

I know the force due to gravity is the force of gravitation on an object on or near the surface of a celestial body but I have no idea how to describe the actual acceleration due to gravity.

Acceleration is the rate of change in the objects velocity/speed.

The force due to gravity would be what you feel when standing up for hours at a time (weight).

Think of it like this: you are standing next to a fat guy. You and the fat guy both have the same acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2), but the FORCE due to gravity is different.

Acceleration due to gravity is a constant (on surface of earth). Force due to gravity depends on the mass of the object.
 
Thanks a lot! That really helped clarify things, God Bless your scientific gifts! :)
 

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