All Flashcards
List the steps to derive the gravitational field equation from Newton's Laws.
- F = G rac{m_1 m_2}{r^2} 2. 3. m_1 a = G rac{m_1 m_2}{r^2} 4. a = G rac{m_2}{r^2} 5. g = G rac{M}{r^2}
How do you calculate gravitational force between two masses?
Use Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation: F = G rac{m_1 m_2}{r^2}.
How do you calculate gravitational field strength?
Use the formula: g = G rac{M}{r^2}.
How to find the acceleration of an object in free fall?
The acceleration is equal to the gravitational field strength, (approximately 9.8 m/s² near Earth's surface, ignoring air resistance).
What is the first step in deriving the orbital speed of a satellite?
Set the gravitational force equal to the centripetal force.
How to calculate the net gravitational force on an object due to multiple sources?
Calculate the gravitational force due to each source separately, then add them vectorially.
What is the effect of increasing the mass of a planet on its gravitational field?
Increases the gravitational field strength.
What is the effect of doubling the distance from a planet's center on gravitational field strength?
The gravitational field strength is quartered (decreases by a factor of 4).
What happens when the only force acting on an object is gravity?
The object is in free fall and accelerates at (near Earth's surface).
What is the effect of gravitational force on a satellite?
It provides the centripetal force required for the satellite to orbit the planet.
What happens when an object falls in a gravitational field?
It accelerates towards the center of the mass creating the field.
Label the diagram of Gravitational Field Lines.
Lines point towards the center of mass, density indicates field strength.
Label the diagram of a Satellite Orbiting a Planet.
Planet (M), Satellite (m), Orbital Radius (r), Gravitational Force (F).