Weight of a person on two planets with different masses

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the weight of a person on two different planets, where one planet has twice the mass of the other but the same volume. The original poster presents an initial weight of 250 N on the first planet and speculates on the weight on the second planet.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the formula for gravitational force and considers the implications of the planets being spheres of equal volume. There is a question about whether the assumption that weight would simply double is valid, and some participants express confusion regarding the calculations presented.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the original poster's reasoning and calculations, with some participants confirming the initial thought process while others point out a mistake in the volume formula used. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of the assumptions made about the planets.

Contextual Notes

Participants note discrepancies in the calculations and express concern over the agreement on incorrect figures, highlighting the importance of careful verification in problem-solving.

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Homework Statement


A person standing on the surface of a planet has a weight of 250 N. Suppose he goes to another planet that is the same size(volume) but twice the mass(more dense). What would his weight be on the second planet?

Homework Equations



g=Gme/re2

The Attempt at a Solution


Hopefully, it is logical to assume that the planets are approximate spheres. In the problem, it is stated that the volume for the two problems is equivalent. Since the volume formula for a sphere is 4/3∏*3r, we can assume that the radii are equivalent. G is a constant. Logic would seem to dictate that the answer is twice the force on the first planet, so the answer would be 1300. However, the answer just doesn't feel right. I can't place it, but it seems like the answer is too simple. Could someone please confirm my answer, or if it's wrong, tell me the problem?

Thanks so much.
 
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You're right. Good job.
 
Thank you!
 
Though the volume of a sphere is \frac{4}{3}\pi r^3 not \frac{4}{3}\pi*3r!
 
Thank you! I remember now, when I looked it up I must have misread it.
 
Wait, how did you get 1300 from doubling 250 again?
 
I didn't. I somehow managed to type a 2 instead of a 6, even though the keys are nowhere near each other. Sorry for the confusion! Now it's a little concerning to me that others agreed when I typed the wrong number.
 
Medgirl314 said:
Now it's a little concerning to me that others agreed when I typed the wrong number.
No need. You've got it right.
 
Okay, thank you!
 

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