Would one weigh more on the equator or on the North Pole?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of weight variation due to gravitational forces at different latitudes, specifically comparing the equator and the North Pole. Participants explore the implications of gravitational acceleration values and the Earth's shape and rotation on weight perception.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of gravitational force equations and question the reasoning behind weight differences at the equator versus the poles. Some raise points about the Earth's shape and rotation affecting weight.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various perspectives on gravitational acceleration and its impact on weight. Some participants affirm the reasoning presented, while others introduce additional factors like the Earth's rotation and shape, suggesting a multi-faceted exploration of the topic.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific gravitational acceleration values at the equator and poles, indicating a reliance on empirical data. The discussion also touches on the Earth's non-spherical shape and the effects of centrifugal force, which may influence participants' assumptions.

einsteinette
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Hello, just wondering if you could apply Fg=mg to this. So the gravitational forces on the equator versus on the North Pole would differ and therefore, you would weigh more on the North Pole. According to what I found, the the gravitational acceleration is 9.78 m/s2 at the equator and 9.83 m/s2 at the poles. Does this reasoning make sense?
 
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Sure;

Earth is not a perfect sphere as we all know, Polar points are closer to the core of the Earth than Equator.So you weigh more in the North pole then equator.

And of course you can use F=m.g to see that, just insert the "g" for poles and equator,
 
Thanks, good to know that I make sense.
 
Cryphonus said:
Earth is not a perfect sphere as we all know, Polar points are closer to the core of the Earth than Equator.So you weigh more in the North pole then equator.

Not only that, but the Earth is rotating as well, so there is a centrifugal force pulling you up that decreases with higher latitudes.
 

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