Cht 12-14 Universal Gravitation

In this unit you will be able to:

1. Discuss how the strength of the gravitational force between two masses is related to the mass and the distance between them.
2. Discuss the principles of an inverse square law. Name four inverse square laws found in nature.
3. Use the law of universal gravitation to solve for the mass, force or distance of various systems.
4. Describe and apply conditions for weightlessness.
5. Use the law of universal gravitation to explain various astronomical phenomena (like the shapes of planets, stars, spiral galaxies, planet orbits, perturbation, etc…).
6. Use the law of universal gravitation to explain various terrestrial phenomena (weight, weightlessness, ocean tides, etc.).
7. Use the law of universal gravitation to explain the motion of satellites.
8. Relate the law of conservation of momentum to the motion of satellites.
9. Differentiate projectile motion from other types of motion, explaining the forces on a projectile and the resulting velocity and acceleration.
10. Explain how the moon may be considered a falling body.
11. Differentiate between circular and elliptical orbits and the conditions necessary to produce each.
12. Identify the four fundamental forces and discuss their nature and relative strengths.