Gravity
Physics: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 1.2.9
Free Fall
If an object is in free fall, then the object’s weight is the only force acting on it. The weight of an object is the force that acts downwards on an object due to gravity.
Free fall
- The acceleration caused by gravity is constant, as long as air resistance is ignored.
- This constant acceleration is called free fall.
- Air resistance can reduce the acceleration.
- But the force of gravity itself stays the same.
Acceleration due to gravity
- An object in free fall will accelerate at a constant rate.
- This constant rate is called the acceleration due to gravity (g).
- The average value for acceleration on Earth due to gravity is 9.8 m/s2.
Test yourself on Gravity
What is the definition of weight?
Which of the following are true?
An object falling from a plane towards the ground...