Gravitational field
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Define a 'field of force'.
A region in space where an object experiences a non-contact force. Examples include gravitational, electric, and magnetic fields.
Define 'gravitational field strength'.
Gravitational field strength (g) is the gravitational force experienced per unit mass at a specific point in a gravitational field. It is a vector quantity.
What is the formula for gravitational field strength (g)?
g = F/m, where F is the gravitational force acting on a mass m. The units are N kg⁻¹ (Newtons per kilogram).
Describe how gravitational field lines represent a gravitational field.
Gravitational field lines show the direction of the force that would act on a small test mass placed in the field. The closer the lines, the stronger the field.
How are gravitational field lines arranged around a spherical mass, such as a planet?
Gravitational field lines around a spherical mass are radial, pointing inwards towards the center of the mass. This indicates that the gravitational force is always attractive.
Explain how the spacing of field lines indicates the relative strength of the gravitational field.
A region where the field lines are closer together indicates a stronger gravitational field. Conversely, widely spaced field lines signify a weaker field.
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