Module 4—Gravitational Force

Read

 

Read “The Role of Gravitational Force on Earth’s Tides” on pages 210 to 213 of the physics textbook.

 

Self-Check

 

SC 4. The Moon can cause a high tide on the side of Earth nearest the Moon. How does the Moon cause a high tide on the side of Earth farthest away from the Moon? (See side B in “Figure 4.24” on page 211 of your textbook.)

 

Check your work.
Self-Check Answers

 

SC 4. The high tide on the side farthest from the Moon is caused by the Moon attracting Earth by gravity more than the water, which is farther away, and pulling Earth closer to itself, leaving the ocean water behind.

 

 

Read

 

Read “The Role of Gravitational Force on Interplanetary Travel” on pages 213 and 214 of the physics textbook.

 

Self-Check

 

SC 5. How is gravity used to accelerate a spacecraft in its flight?

 

Check your work.
Self-Check Answers

 

SC 5. If a spacecraft approaches a planet travelling in the same direction, the planet’s gravitational attraction will accelerate the planet toward it. This curves the spacecraft’s path in, and the acceleration slingshots the craft away at a different trajectory with increased speed.

 

 

Module 4: Lesson 3 Assignment

 

Remember to submit the answer to Reflect and Connect to your teacher as part of your Module 4: Lesson 3 Assignment.