Acceleration Due To Gravity Formula:
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Acceleration due to gravity (g) is the acceleration experienced by an object in free fall near the Earth's surface. The standard value is approximately 9.81 m/s², though it varies slightly with location and altitude.
The calculator uses the gravitational acceleration formula:
To calculate weight (force due to gravity):
Where:
Explanation: This calculation determines the gravitational force acting on an object with a given mass at Earth's surface.
Details: Understanding gravitational acceleration is fundamental in physics, engineering, and various scientific applications. It's essential for calculating forces, designing structures, and understanding planetary motion.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms. The calculator will compute the corresponding weight in Newtons using the standard gravitational acceleration of 9.81 m/s².
Q1: Why is g = 9.81 m/s²?
A: This is the average acceleration due to gravity at Earth's surface, though it varies from about 9.76 to 9.83 m/s² depending on location.
Q2: Does gravity change with altitude?
A: Yes, gravitational acceleration decreases with increasing altitude from Earth's surface according to the inverse square law.
Q3: How does gravity differ on other planets?
A: Different celestial bodies have different gravitational accelerations based on their mass and radius (e.g., Moon: 1.62 m/s², Mars: 3.71 m/s²).
Q4: What's the difference between mass and weight?
A: Mass is the amount of matter (constant), while weight is the force of gravity acting on that mass (varies with gravitational field).
Q5: How was the value of g determined?
A: Through precise measurements using pendulums, free-fall experiments, and modern gravimeters over centuries of scientific research.