Why Does Gravity Affect Weight?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between gravity and weight, specifically how gravitational force is influenced by mass. According to Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation, the gravitational force between two objects is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. This explains why a heavier object, such as a bowling ball, experiences a greater gravitational pull than a lighter object, like an apple. Consequently, an individual's weight increases with additional mass due to the stronger gravitational attraction exerted by the Earth.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation
  • Basic knowledge of mass and weight concepts
  • Familiarity with gravitational force calculations
  • Introductory physics principles
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation in detail
  • Explore the concept of weight versus mass in different gravitational fields
  • Learn about gravitational force calculations using specific examples
  • Investigate the effects of gravity on various celestial bodies
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students beginning their studies in physics, educators teaching fundamental concepts of gravity, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of mass and weight in relation to gravitational forces.

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Hi. I'm an absolute noob at physics, so I went to the library and checked out a couple beginner books. Basic Physics: A self-teaching guide and Science 101 Physics.

I'm just getting started reading physics 101 and read the following statement:

"...all you have to do to determine your weight is step on a scale. What is actually being measured in this case is the gravitational pull of the Earth on your body."

It then goes on to talk about your weight on other planets, etc.

I'm wondering why the Earth pulls harder on me when I'm fatter. I hope that question makes sense. I just can't see why the gravitational pull is greater for a bowling ball than it is for an apple.

Thanks for any clarification.
 
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You said you are starting physics now...So start it and go on further you get to know why it is on your..

from Newton's gravitational law , gravity between two objects proportional to the product of the masses directly and inversly to the square of the distance between them,.,,,
So you conclude why a ball is pulled with greater force that an apple or why you weigh more when you are fatter...(means more mass)
 

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