Final answer:
The gravitational constant, denoted as 'G', has units of Newton meters squared per kilogram squared (N m^2 kg^-2). These units match up so that when 'G' is used in Newton's law of gravitation, the equation produces a result in newtons, the unit of force.
Step-by-step explanation:
The gravitational constant, often referred to as 'Big G', is a key quantity in Newton's law of gravitation which defines the attractive force (F) between two masses (m1 and m2) at a certain distance (r) apart. Mathematically, the force F is proportional to the product of the two masses divided by the square of the distance between their centers and is calculated using the formula:
F = G * (m1 * m2) / r2
The units of the gravitational constant are designed so that when it is used in this equation, the units of force (newtons, N) will match up correctly. Therefore, the units of G are Newton meters squared per kilogram squared (N m2 kg-2). These units come from the parts of the equation, where newtons are the units for force, meters for the distance, and kilograms for the masses.
Understanding the Units