Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Gravitational field of a point mass

Gravitational field of a point mass — practice question

(a(i))[2]

State the meaning of a field of force.

(a(ii))[1]

Define the term gravitational field strength.

(b)[3]

An isolated planet can be treated as a uniform sphere with radius $3.39 \times 10^{6}\,\text{m}$ and mass $6.42 \times 10^{23}\,\text{kg}$ concentrated at the centre. Calculate the gravitational field strength at the planet’s surface.

(c)[3]

Calculate the height above the planet’s surface in (b) where the gravitational field strength is $1.0\%$ smaller than it is at the surface.

Worked solution & mark scheme

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