8.PS2.3 Gravitational Forces Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards based on student-friendly science definitions for 8.PS2.3 Gravitational Forces.

gravity

force that pulls objects with mass together

gravitational force

the pull between objects with mass

mass

amount of matter in an object

weight

force of gravity on an object

orbit

curved path around another object

planet

large object that orbits a star

moon

natural object that orbits a planet

star

huge ball of hot gas that gives off light and heat

pull

force toward something

distance

how far apart two objects are

center of mass

balance point of an object or system

solar system

the Sun and objects that orbit it

tide

rise and fall of ocean water caused mostly by gravity

acceleration

change in speed or direction

free fall

motion when gravity is the main force acting

satellite

object that orbits another object

artificial satellite

human-made object that orbits Earth or another body

natural satellite

moon or natural object that orbits

elliptical orbit

oval-shaped orbit

gravitational field

area where gravity can act