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Gravity and Orbitals

Last updated almost 8 years ago
6 questions
Learning Objectives- Students will be able to:
  • Draw motion of planets, Moons and satellites.
  • Draw diagrams to show how gravity is the force that controls the motion of our solar system.
  • Identify the variables that affect the strength of the gravity.
  • Predict how motion would change if gravity was stronger or weaker.
Part 1: Understanding motion Open the Gravity and Orbits simulation. Take 5 minutes to explore how the Earth, Moon, and the Space Station move. Talk about what you find with your partner and share what controls you have found with your team.
1

Compare the motion of the Earth moving around the Sun with the Moon moving around the Earth.
If you and your partner both have a computer: Try choosing a different view on each computer for this question.

1

What are some things you find that are the same about these motions?

1

What are some things you find that are different about these motions?

1

Part 2: Understanding Gravity
For the Sun and Earth system:

1

Explore the simulation to find out how you can change the force of gravity and observe what happens.

Return to your pictures in Questions 2 and add arrows to show the force of gravity. Label them with “Gravity Force”.
1

Part 3: Gravity and Motion
Fill in the table to help describe what you find out.