Newton's Gravitational Constant Calculation



Title Newton's Gravitational Constant Calculation
Description Student calculate the value of G using a modeling approach. They vary the M1, M2, and R in the on-line PhET app, gathering 6-10 sets of values. Then they set up a variable "X" = M1*M2/R^2 and see how it varies with the app's given value of Force. The relationship should be linear, with the slope of G and a Y-intercept very close to zero.
Subject Astronomy, Mathematics, Physics
Level High School
Type Lab
Duration 60 minutes
Answers Included No
Language English
Keywords Excel, Newton, TI-calculator, big-G, constant, gravitational, modeling
Simulation(s) Gravity Force Lab (HTML5)

Author(s) Steve Cooperman
Contact Email skyeman1@gmail.com
School / Organization Campbell Hall Episcopal
Date submitted 2/27/17
Date updated 2/27/17