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The gravitational constant, G (big G), is a physical constant that doesn't change at all. The magnitude of gravitational acceleration, g (little g), has no effect on G.
Little g is used as an approximation for near-surface gravity of a planet (or other large mass). The reason it is used is because the formula for universal gravity and Newton's second law:
- F = G (mplanet*mobject)/(r3) -- r is the distance between the centers of mass
- F = mobject*aobject
- aobject = G (mplanet)/r3
We call the above magnitude, g. Each planet has its own g and Earth's is about 9.8 m/s2.
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How does gravitational force effect a space traveler?
On launch, the gravitational force increases their body weight by about three or four times, and their blood tries to stay grounded, sending the body into chaos.
Where is its gravitational potential energy minimum?
The answer depends on what "it" is and the overall context. The answer could be the centre of the earth where the earth's gravity has no effect, or the Lagrange point where the gravitational forces of the moon, earth and sun balance each other.
What is the mechanical advantage of an inclined plane if it were on the moon instead of the earth?
Exactly the same. The reduction in gravitational force has no effect on M.A., which is a matter of simple geometry.
What will be the weight in kg of 1 liter of furnace oil having specific gravity of 0.9655?
Mass is measured in kilograms, not weight. The mass of the furnace oil will be 0.9655 kg. If you do not know the difference between weight and mass, consider the following: You have the same amount of material in you whether you are in earth, in mid space or on the moon. That is your mass. You also have a certain amount of weight on earth, which is the effect of the earth's gravitational force acting on your mass. On the moon, the gravitational force is only a sixth as strong and your weight will be only a sixth as much as on earth. In outer space, there may be no gravitational force in which case your weight will be 0. Thus your mass is something that is an intrinsic property of you (at least, of your body) while your weight is largely dependent on the gravitational force acting on you.
What is the uncertainty of a constant value?
It is the accuracy in the estimate of the constant or the effect of rounding.
