Gravity
Science: KS3, topic 3.2.7
Gravity
All matter has a gravitational field. A gravitational field makes a force that pulls other masses.
Very weak force
- Gravity is very weak compared to magnetism and electric forces.
- We only feel gravitational forces when near a very massive object (e.g. the Earth).
Size of force depends on mass
- The gravitational force between two people will be much too small for them to feel.
- But the gravitational force between people and the Earth is easy to feel.
- The Earth is so massive.
Objects weigh less on the moon
- The force between a person and the Moon is smaller than with the Earth.
- The Moon has less mass than the Earth.
- So objects weigh less on the Moon.
Test yourself on Gravity
What type of object has a gravitational field?
The size of the gravitational force between two objects depends on which of these?
Where would a feather weigh the most?
Select the correct statement in each pair.