Universal Gravitation w/ Earth & Moon

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SUMMARY

The mass of the Moon is determined to be 1/96 that of the Earth based on the gravitational acceleration and radius ratios. The acceleration of gravity on the Moon is 1/6 that of Earth, and the radius of the Moon is 1/4 that of Earth. Using the formula M = (gr²)/(G), the calculations confirm that the Moon's mass relative to Earth is accurately derived. The discussion emphasizes the correct application of gravitational equations and ratios.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational force equations, specifically F_g = GMm/r²
  • Knowledge of gravitational acceleration concepts, particularly g on Earth and the Moon
  • Familiarity with ratios and their application in physics
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of gravitational differences on celestial bodies
  • Learn about the Universal Law of Gravitation and its applications
  • Explore the concept of gravitational binding energy in astrophysics
  • Investigate the Moon's geological characteristics and how they relate to its mass
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on gravitation, astrophysics enthusiasts, and educators teaching gravitational concepts.

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Homework Statement


The acceleration of gravity on the Moon is 1/6 what it is on Earth. The radius of the Moon is 1/4 that of the Earth. What is the Moon's mass compared to the Earth's?

Homework Equations


F_g = \frac{GMm} {r^2}
=> mg = \frac{GMm} {r^2}
=> g = \frac{GM} {r^2}
=> M = \frac{gr^2} {G}

The Attempt at a Solution


gravity on the Moon is 1/6 what it is on Earth => g => g/6
radius of the Moon is 1/4 that of the Earth =>r^2 => (r/4)^2 = r^2 / 16
M = \frac{(\frac{g}{6}\frac{r^2}{16})} {G} = \frac{(\frac{gr^2}{96})} {G} = \frac{gr^2}{96G}

The Moon's mass compared to the Earth's is 1/96.

Did I divide and bring the G up correctly?

Thank-you
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You can google the moon fact sheet to check :)

All the ratios you want are also there !
Considering you only have these numbers 4 and 6 to begin with, you have done just fine.
 

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