Weight in Different Gravitational Fields
About This MicroSim
This simulation demonstrates the critical difference between mass (constant everywhere) and weight (depends on local gravity). An astronaut with the same mass experiences different weights on Earth, Moon, Mars, and Jupiter.
Key Concepts
- Mass (m): Amount of matter - stays constant regardless of location
- Weight (W): Gravitational force - calculated as W = mg
- Gravitational acceleration (g): Varies by celestial body
| Body | g (m/s²) | 70 kg person weighs |
|---|---|---|
| Earth | 9.8 | 686 N |
| Moon | 1.6 | 112 N |
| Mars | 3.7 | 259 N |
| Jupiter | 24.8 | 1736 N |
Learning Objectives
- Distinguish between mass and weight
- Apply W = mg to calculate weight on different planets
- Understand that weight is a force measured in Newtons