Code Number: 8A70.78
Demo Title: Planetary Gravities
Condition: Good
Principle: Planetary Gravities
Area of Study: Astronomy
Procedure:
Prepare empty soda cans with the following masses by adding either sand, BB's, or lead shot.
| Planet/Body | Mass |
|---|---|
| Mercury | 1.46 N |
| Venus | 3.50 N |
| Earth | 3.88 N (or, a full unopened can of soda) |
| Mars | 1.42 N |
| Jupiter | 10.44 N |
| Saturn | 4.62 N |
| Uranus | 3.61 N |
| Neptune | 4.73 N |
| Pluto | 0.77 N |
| Moon | 0.64 N |
| Sun | 108.25 N (this will not fit in a soda can) |
After the cans have the right mass and are labeled, you may seal the cans using some expandable foam.
Credit for this demo: Richard Heckathorn
References:
- Brian C. Thomas and Matthew Quick, "Getting the Swing of Surface Gravity", TPT, Vol. 50, #4, Apr. 2012, p. 232.
- Laurent Hodges, "Gravitational Field Strength Inside the Earth", AJP, Vol. 59, #10, Oct. 1991, p. 954.
- "Gravity", PIRA Local.