diff --git a/PhysicsGravitationLabReport/main.pdf b/PhysicsGravitationLabReport/main.pdf index 6fe19d1..8f8c097 100644 Binary files a/PhysicsGravitationLabReport/main.pdf and b/PhysicsGravitationLabReport/main.pdf differ diff --git a/PhysicsGravitationLabReport/main.tex b/PhysicsGravitationLabReport/main.tex index 2308e23..80a9362 100644 --- a/PhysicsGravitationLabReport/main.tex +++ b/PhysicsGravitationLabReport/main.tex @@ -93,7 +93,7 @@ F_g = G \frac{m_1 m_2}{r^2} \end{equation} where \(F\) is the gravitational force, \(m_1\) and \(m_2\) are the interacting masses, \(r\) is the distance between their centers. -\(G\) is the universal gravitational constant, a constant of proprtionality that has been calculated to be +\(G\) is the universal gravitational constant, a constant of proportionality that has been calculated to be \[ G = 6.674 \times 10^{-11}\ \text{N}\,\text{m}^2\,\text{kg}^{-2}. \] @@ -592,9 +592,21 @@ uses uniform spheres with a seemingly uniform density. This leads to an unproved The primary critique regarding this lab is that the simulation itself does not render objects as they are in real life, but rather uses NLUG to calculate the output. In other words, NLUG is derived from a simulation where NLUG is already built-in, which nearly invalidates that the simulation as a valid source for data. Using physical objects comes with the additional limitation of human error -and external forces; however, they would more accurately showcase the true relationship of NLUG without a biased pre-coded simulation.\\\\ +and external forces; however, they would more accurately showcase the true relationship of NLUG without a biased pre-coded simulation. +Additionally, adding more trials would help make the experimental setups more stable, and fixing the errors outlined in the Error Analysis +would greatly improve the validity of the experiment itself.\\ +One specific application of NLUG is in calculating satellite orbits. Understanding NLUG allows engineers and physicists to +properly determine the force needed to maintain a satellite in stable orbit to ensure proper position for communication. +A second application is in planetary motion and astrophysics, where the same gravitational principles are used to +predict the trajectories of planets, moons, and comets. Additionally, NLUG can be used to calculate masses of planetary objects, +and proper understanding is required for accurate calculations.\\ +This lab can be carried out differently and still illustrate teh same physics concepts. +For example, physical masses and a torsion balance can be used (similar to Cavendish) to directly measure the gravitational +attraction between small masses in a lab setting. Another method using two pendulums so measure minute changes in motion caused by gravitational attraction. +This will allow for a practical visualization of $F_G \propto 1/r^2$. Astronomical observations and using high precision force sensors are also alternatives, +although they would not be easily viable for a classroom lab setting. \end{document}