Gravitational Fields
School administrators generally do not allow physics classes to take field trips to other planets to study gravitational forces. And it is rather difficult to change the mass of the earth or the moon in an effort to see if such changes have an effect upon the gravitational force. But with this Interactive, changing the masses of planets and moons and the distance that separates them is a snap. And by doing so, a learner can discover the law of universal gravitation without ever leaving home or school.
Users are encouraged to open the Interactive and explore. Or if desired, The Physics Classroom has prepared an activity for a more directed experience. The activity was designed with the intent of being used by classroom teachers with their classes.
Our Gravitational Fields simulation is now available with a Concept Checker. Do the simulation. Then follow it up with the
Concept Checker.
Learners and Instructors may also be interested in viewing the accompanying
Notes page. Technical information, teaching suggestions, and related resources that complement this Interactive are provided on the Notes page. View
Notes.