Gravitational Force Calculator
Gravitational Force Calculator
This online calculator helps you compute the gravitational force acting on an object with a certain mass on Earth's surface.
Formula:
F = m × g
- F - gravitational force (N)
- m - mass of object (kg)
- g - gravitational acceleration ≈ 9.81 m/s²
What is gravitational force?
Gravitational force is the force with which Earth attracts objects toward its center. It's what we commonly call "weight" in everyday language, though scientifically weight and mass are different concepts.
Weight vs Mass:
- Mass: Amount of matter in an object (kg) - constant everywhere
- Weight: Gravitational force on that mass (N) - varies with gravity
Applications:
- Engineering calculations
- Physics problems
- Space science (different gravity values)
- Material handling and safety
Examples:
- 1 kg object: F = 1 × 9.81 = 9.81 N
- 70 kg person: F = 70 × 9.81 = 686.7 N
- On Moon (g ≈ 1.6 m/s²): 70 kg person weighs only 112 N
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gravitational force?
Gravitational force is the force with which Earth attracts objects toward itself. It's calculated using F = m × g.
What units is gravitational force measured in?
In Newtons (N), where 1 N = 1 kg × m/s².
What value of g is used on Earth?
Standard value: 9.81 m/s². It can vary slightly depending on latitude and altitude above sea level.
What's the difference between mass and weight?
Mass is the amount of matter (kg), weight is the gravitational force on that mass (N). Mass stays constant, weight changes with gravity.
How would weight change on other planets?
Weight depends on gravitational acceleration. On Mars (g ≈ 3.7 m/s²), you'd weigh about 38% of your Earth weight.