Question 1: Define gravity and explain its significance in the Solar System.

Answer: Gravity is the force of attraction between two masses. In the Solar System, it keeps planets, moons, and other objects in orbit around the Sun.

Question 2: Describe how gravity affects the movement of planets around the Sun.

Answer: Gravity provides the centripetal force that keeps planets in their elliptical orbits around the Sun, balancing their tendency to move in straight lines.

Question 3: What is the gravitational force between two objects dependent on?

Answer: The gravitational force depends on the masses of the objects and the distance between them, following Newton's law of universal gravitation.

Question 1: Calculate the gravitational force between Earth and a satellite with a mass of 1000 kg, orbiting at an altitude of 400 km above Earth's surface. Use the formula: F = G * (m1 * m2) / r^2, where G = 6.674×10^-11 N·m^2/kg^2, Earth's radius = 6,371 km, and Earth's mass = 5.972×10^24 kg.

Answer: Approximately 980 N

Question 2: If the mass of a rocket is 2,000 kg and it experiences a gravitational force of 19,620 N on Earth, what is the acceleration due to gravity at that location? Use F = m * g.

Answer: g = 9.81 m/s^2

Question 1: Describe a simple laboratory experiment to measure the acceleration due to gravity using a pendulum. Include variables to control and safety precautions.

Answer: A simple experiment involves measuring the period of oscillation of a pendulum with a known length. Variables include length of the pendulum and timing method. Control variables include minimizing air currents and ensuring the pendulum swings freely. Safety precautions include securing the pendulum properly and avoiding swinging it too high to prevent injury.

Question 1: A spacecraft is designed to land on a planet with gravity half that of Earth's. How does this difference in gravity affect the design of landing gear and surface operations?

Answer: Lower gravity means less force during landing, so landing gear can be lighter, but surface operations must account for reduced traction and stability. Equipment may need modifications to ensure safe movement and stability.

Question 2: Industrial chemists use gravity to separate components in a mixture through centrifugation. Explain how understanding gravity enhances this process.

Answer: Understanding gravity allows chemists to optimize centrifuge speed and duration, ensuring efficient separation based on mass differences. Gravity's role in creating centrifugal force helps in accurately isolating components in chemical mixtures.

Question 1: Discuss how gravity affects the manufacturing and transportation of aluminum, used in aerospace industry.

Answer: Gravity influences the casting and molding processes, and during transportation, the weight of aluminum affects handling and stability. Gravity also impacts the design of aircraft and spacecraft to ensure structural integrity.

Question 2: Explain the importance of understanding gravitational forces when designing space stations and satellites.

Answer: Designing space stations and satellites requires understanding gravitational forces to ensure stability, proper orbit, and functionality. Knowledge of gravity helps in calculating fuel requirements for orbit adjustments and in designing systems that operate effectively in microgravity environments.