Gravitational Field Formulas

Vocabulary flashcards covering the key concepts and equations of gravitational fields.

Gravitational field strength ($g$)

The gravitational force per unit mass, defined by the formula $g = \frac{F}{m}$.

Gravitational force ($F$)

The gravitational force of attraction between two masses $M$ and $m$ separated by distance $r$, given by $F = -\frac{GMm}{r^2}$.

Radial gravitational field strength ($g$)

The gravitational field strength created by a point mass $M$ at a distance $r$, given by $g = -\frac{GM}{r^2}$.

Orbital period squared ($T^2$)

The relationship between the orbital period $T$ and radius $r$ for a body orbiting mass $M$, defined by $T^2 = \left(\frac{4\pi^2}{GM}\right)r^3$.

Gravitational potential ($V_g$)

The gravitational potential at a distance $r$ from a mass $M$, given by $V_g = -\frac{GM}{r}$.

Gravitational potential energy

The potential energy of a system consisting of masses $M$ and $m$ separated by distance $r$, defined by $\text{energy} = -\frac{GMm}{r}$.

Gravitational field formula sheet

A collection of standard equations for gravitational field strength, force, orbital period, gravitational potential, and energy in a gravitational field.