What is the mistake in my calculation for gravitational field strength?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculation of gravitational field strength using the formula g = GM / r^2. The user attempts to derive the gravitational field strength by substituting mass with density and volume, leading to the equation p * 4/3 * pi * r = g. The user identifies a discrepancy in their final calculation, arriving at 56.13 Nkg^-1 instead of the expected 13.4 Nkg^-1. The error lies in the incorrect application of density and radius relationships between two spherical bodies.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational field strength and the formula g = GM / r^2
  • Knowledge of density calculations using p = M / v
  • Familiarity with the volume of a sphere formula Vs = 4/3 * pi * r^3
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills for rearranging equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of gravitational field strength from first principles
  • Study the relationship between density and gravitational force in spherical bodies
  • Explore the implications of varying radius and density on gravitational calculations
  • Practice solving problems involving gravitational field strength with different mass and radius values
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on gravitational forces and field strength calculations, as well as educators looking for examples of common mistakes in gravitational problem-solving.

pyman999
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Homework Statement


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Homework Equations


g = GM / r^2, where g is the gravitational field strength, G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the attracting body, r is the radius of the attracting body.
p = M / v, where p is density and v is the volume.
Vs = 4/3 * pi * r^3, where Vs is the volume of a sphere, r is the radius of the sphere.

The Attempt at a Solution


g = M / r^2 (as G is constant)
rearraging p = M / v, M = pv
pv / r^2 = g
(p * 4/3 * pi * r^3) / r^2 = g (assuming the planet is perfectly spherical)
p * 4/3 * pi * r = g
density of Q is 1/2 that of P, radius is 2x that of P.
1/2 * 4/3 * pi * 2 = 4/3 * pi
therefore, 4/3 * pi * 13.4 = 56.13Nkg^-1, however the answer is 13.4Nkg^-1? Can someone see where I've gone wrong?
 
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4/3 is a constant, and so is pi... just like G.
 

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