Chapter 7, Problem 80A

To determine

The change in the force exerted by the Earth’s gravitational field on the object if the mass of the object is doubled.

Answer to Problem 80A

Force will also be doubled.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The weight of an object of mass m , or the force exerted by the gravitational field on mass m , on the planet is given by,

  $W=mg$

Where, g is the gravitational strength on the planet.

If the mass of the object is doubled, and the Earth’s gravitational field remains constant, then the force exerted by the gravitational field will also be doubled since force is directly proportional to the mass of the object.

  $W\propto m$

Conclusion:

Thus, the force exerted by the Earth’s gravitational field will also be doubled if the mass of the object is doubled.