SUMMARY
The gravitational center of the Earth is influenced by the Earth-Moon system, where the barycenter is located approximately 1,700 km below the Earth's surface. Gravitational forces are nullified near this center, meaning the gravitational field is not felt in free fall. The Moon's gravitational field does not shift the area of zero gravity; rather, it is the frame of reference that determines the perception of gravitational forces. Objects at the barycenter remain attracted to the Earth's center, despite the Earth and Moon orbiting their mutual center of mass.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of gravitational forces and fields
- Knowledge of the Earth-Moon system dynamics
- Familiarity with the concept of barycenter
- Basic principles of free fall and frame of reference
NEXT STEPS
- Research the concept of barycenter in celestial mechanics
- Explore gravitational field variations within planetary bodies
- Study the effects of the Moon's gravity on Earth’s tides
- Investigate the principles of free fall in different gravitational contexts
USEFUL FOR
Astronomers, physicists, students of planetary science, and anyone interested in the dynamics of gravitational forces within the Earth-Moon system.