Question

Which one of the following statements concerning the two "gravitational constants" G, the universal gravitational constant, and g, the magnitude of the acceleration due to gravity, is true? a) G is a measure of the strength of the gravitational force between two objects, while g is the acceleration due to gravity at a specific location. b) G and g are equal in value. c) G and g are unrelated and have no connection. d) G is the acceleration due to gravity, while g is the gravitational constant.

Answer 1

The correct statement is that G is a measure of the strength of the gravitational force between two objects, while g is the acceleration due to gravity at a specific location. Therefore the statement 'a' is true.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct statement is option a) G is a measure of the strength of the gravitational force between two objects, while g is the acceleration due to gravity at a specific location.

G (universal gravitational constant) is a fundamental constant that appears in Newton's law of universal gravitation and quantifies the strength of the gravitational force between two objects. It is approximately 6.67430 x 10^-11 m^3 kg^-1 s^-2. On the other hand, g (magnitude of the acceleration due to gravity) represents the acceleration experienced by an object due to the gravitational force exerted by a massive body, such as Earth. It is approximately 9.8 m/s^2 at the surface of Earth.

So, G and g are distinct quantities that serve different purposes in gravitational physics.

Learn more about gravitational constants