Gravitational Field & Field Intensity — A/L Physics

How do I practise Gravitational Field & Field Intensity?

1 question with a worked solution

1. If g is the gravitational acceleration on the surface of a spherical planet of radius R, what is the gravitational field intensity at an altitude h = R above the planet's surface?
   1. A) g / 2
   2. B) g / √2
   3. C) g / 4
   4. D) g / 8
   Check my answer

   Correct answer: C) g / 4

   Gravitational field intensity at distance r from the center of mass is g(r) = GM / r². On the surface, r = R, so g = GM / R². At altitude h = R, the distance from the center is r = R + h = 2R. Thus, g' = GM / (2R)² = GM / (4R²) = g / 4.

   Show worked solution

   Step 1: Formula: g(r) = GM / r². Step 2: Surface: g = GM / R². Step 3: At r = R + R = 2R: g' = GM / (2R)² = GM / (4R²) = g / 4. Answer: g / 4.
   Modelled on: the A/L Physics examination pattern

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Where does Gravitational Field & Field Intensity fit in the syllabus?

Unit 5.2 · Year 1 · Term 3