Gravity

Purpose

The discussion is associated with the lab for this module. It is aligned with module learning objectives #1 and #4.

• MLO 1. Describe Newton’s law of universal gravitation and how it depends on mass and distance.
• MLO 4. Describe motion in two dimensions, and the conditions for which it occurs.

Directions

This is a group discussion. You should have been divided into groups. You can find the groups by clicking the People link in Course Navigation. If you can’t find any groups there, please contact your instructor immediately.

To find your group, you may also follow the directions on how to view Canvas groups in Canvas Student Guide.

Please complete this graded activity according to the following guidelines.

 PART 1: INITIAL RESPONSE

1. Select one planet (or a Moon of a planet) of the solar system. Each student of the group should pick a different planet (or Moon).
2. Write a reply post with the name of the planet and its acceleration of gravity.
3. Assume that all planets are habitable like the Earth, and they have a solid surface. Assume that you are on the planet you selected. The acceleration of gravity is of course different from the acceleration on the Earth. What would you find easier to do or more difficult to do on that planet with respect to when you are on the Earth? In the same post, please write one idea and motivate your answer and share it with your group.

 PART 2: COMMENTS

When all group members left a post, leave one comment or additional idea on the post of another student of the group. Your comment should demonstrate an in-depth reflection on and synthesis of the readings and the videos presented in the course materials. A post that only states “well done,” “I agree,” or something similar doesn’t count as a comment and will not be graded.