Earth/Space Gravity and Motion Flashcards

Questions and Answers

Which statement explains how weight is different from mass?

Mass is a varying property.

Mass is measured in newtons.

Weight is a measure of gravitational pull. (correct)

Weight is always greater than mass.

Which statement best explains why objects are pulled toward Earth's center?

The strength of the Sun's gravity pushes down on objects at Earth's surface.

The weight of the atmosphere pushes objects toward Earth's surface.

Earth has a magnetic force that is strongest at its core.

Earth has a much greater mass than objects on its surface. (correct)

Which statement describes how Earth compares to the moon?

Earth has more inertia than the moon. (correct)

The moon rotates at a constant speed while Earth's speed varies.

The moon has more gravitational pull than Earth.

Earth and the moon will not change their motion when acted on by a force.

Which factor affects the force of gravity between objects? (Check all that apply)

Distance Signup and view all the answers

Which action results from the combination of gravity and inertia working on the moon?

The moon's orbit around Earth Signup and view all the answers

Which description explains how inertia changes the effects of gravity on objects in the solar system?

Prevents planets from pulling into one another Signup and view all the answers

Which statement explains how gravity and inertia work together?

They change the motion of objects. Signup and view all the answers

Which is the best label for the dotted-line arrow?

Moon's motion without gravity Signup and view all the answers

According to Newton's first law, which characteristic of a moving object would remain constant if there were no other forces acting on it?

Speed Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the path of the paper airplane?

The paper airplane will create a curved path toward the floor as it is pulled toward Earth's center. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Concepts of Gravity and Motion

Weight vs. Mass: Weight measures gravitational pull and is always greater than mass, which is a constant property measured in kilograms.
Earth's Mass: Earth's large mass compared to surface objects creates a strong gravitational pull toward its center.

Inertia and Motion

Inertia: Earth has greater inertia than the Moon, influencing its motion and resistance to changes.
Gravity and Inertia: Together, gravity and inertia modify how objects move; they interact to maintain or change an object’s state of motion.

Factors Influencing Gravity

Gravity Factors: The force of gravity between two objects is affected by distance and mass; shape and time do not play a significant role.
Moon's Orbit: The interplay of gravity and inertia maintains the Moon's orbit around Earth, influenced by Earth's gravitational pull.

Motion in the Solar System

Inertia in Space: Inertia prevents planets from collapsing into one another despite gravitational attraction.
Constant Speed: According to Newton's first law, without external forces, an object's speed remains constant, regardless of its mass or shape.

Motion Predictions

Paper Airplane Example: A paper airplane will create a curved path due to gravitational pull, rather than moving in a straight line or orbiting other objects.

Description

Test your understanding of gravity and motion concepts with these flashcards. Explore the differences between weight and mass, and learn why objects are attracted to Earth's center. Perfect for students studying Earth and space science.