𝐺𝑚1𝑚2

Gravitational force, F =
𝑟2
𝐺𝑀
Gravitational acceleration, g=
𝑅2

• Earth = 9.81 m/s

• other planets

Importance of Knowing the Value of Gravitational Acceleration

• In space exploration:
o Gravity influences the path taken by everything travelling through space
o Slow down space craft during landing
o Keep satellite in its orbit
• In life:
o Rain fall
o Air and water separate
o Flow of body fluids

effects of gravity on the growth of humans

Factors Effect of low gravity
Difference in density Density of body decrease
Bone fragility Bone becomes more fragile,
due loss of nutrients
Size of lungs Increases or expanded
Blood circulation system Blood collected in the upper
parts of body
Blood pressure Lower blood pressure and heart
rate
Effect of high gravity
Density of body increases
No significant changes
Reduces or contracted
Blood collected at the lower
part of body
Higher blood pressure and
heart rate
centripetal force.
A body in circular motion, a force acts on the body in a direction towards the centre of the circle.

Factor affecting centripetal force:

• Mass
• Linear speed
• Radius of circle