Gravity (images) – Regardless of the mass of the object, a free falling object will accelerate towards the Earth at 9.8 m/s/s. This means that their speed will change by nearly 10 m/s (about 22 mi/hr) every second of fall. The value of 9.8 m/s/s is known as the acceleration of gravity.
Gravity – a force that exists between the Earth and the objects that are near it.
Gravity on different celestial bodies
Gravity is the force that gives things “weight” and is different on different worlds due to variations in the size and mass of those worlds.
This exhibit lets you experience Gravity on each of these worlds by lifting the gallon jugs of milk.
On Earth, a gallon of milk weighs a little over 9 pounds.
The Moon has less mass than the Earth, so a gallon of milk would weigh about 1 1/3 pounds on the Moon.
On Mars, a gallon of milk would weigh about3 pounds.
But on our largest planet, Jupiter, a gallon of milk would weigh over 19 pounds.
Exhibit design
Jugs filled with metal weights. Cap with handle through a plexiglas plate. Handle on rope flexible and rubs over the hole in the cover. Rubber washer to protect top of jug and underside of cover.
Do the math to determine equivalent weight.
Do It
Challenges for you to work on…
- Gravity Force Lab – interactive simulation
- Gravity, Mass & Weight – Learn about gravity, mass, weight, air resistance and forces while competing in a gymnastics competition with a twist. Use your science knowledge to make successful jumps, balance forces, use gravity and more,
engineering 4 kids 