Learning objective
Understand the law of universal gravitation and the limits of its applicability.
Know the meaning of the gravitational constant and how it is measured.
Master the concepts of gravitational field strength and potential energy.
Learn to calculate planetary masses and the free-fall acceleration on their surfaces.
Expected outcomes
Calculates the gravitational force between two bodies using $F = Gm_1m_2/r^2$.
Finds how the free-fall acceleration changes with height and estimates a planet's mass from $g$ and $R$.
Explains the sign of gravitational potential energy and the choice of its zero level.
Activities
Lecture
Lecture · 1 h 15 min ·
required
Problem solving: the law of universal gravitation
Practice · 1 h 15 min ·
required
The gravitational force and its nature
Self-study · 6 h 15 min ·
optional
Final test
Test · 20 min ·
required
· pass ≥ 70%
Completion conditions
- Lecture
- Problem solving: the law of universal gravitation
- Final test — at least 70%