1. What is the Gravity at Altitude Formula?

The gravity at altitude formula calculates how the acceleration due to gravity decreases with increasing altitude above the Earth's surface. This is important for various scientific and engineering applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the gravity at altitude formula:

Where:

• \( g_h \) — Gravity at altitude (m/s²)
• \( g \) — Standard gravity at sea level (9.81 m/s²)
• \( h \) — Altitude above Earth's surface (m)
• \( R \) — Earth's radius (approximately 6,371,000 m)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the inverse square relationship between gravity and distance from Earth's center.

3. Importance of Gravity Calculation

Details: Accurate gravity calculation is crucial for satellite operations, aerospace engineering, geophysical surveys, and understanding how weight changes with altitude.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter standard gravity (typically 9.81 m/s²), altitude in meters, and Earth's radius (typically 6,371,000 m). All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does gravity decrease with altitude?
A: Gravity follows an inverse square law with distance from Earth's center. As altitude increases, you're farther from Earth's center, reducing gravitational acceleration.

Q2: How much does gravity change with altitude?
A: Gravity decreases by approximately 0.03 m/s² for every 10,000 meters of altitude gained, though the decrease is not linear.

Q3: Does this formula account for Earth's rotation?
A: No, this formula calculates gravitational acceleration only. The apparent gravity we experience is slightly less due to Earth's rotation.

Q4: What is the standard value for Earth's radius?
A: Earth's mean radius is approximately 6,371,000 meters (6,371 km), though Earth is slightly oblate.

Q5: Can this formula be used for other celestial bodies?
A: Yes, with appropriate values for g and R, this formula can calculate gravity at altitude for any spherical body.