By using gravitational force equations, Earth’s mass and density can be estimated from gravitational constant and Earth’s radius.
Class 11 Physics
Gravitation
CBSE Exam 2024-25
Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive a link and will create a new password via email.
Mass of the Earth:
The mass of the Earth can be calculated using the relationship between gravitational acceleration g, the gravitational constant G , and the Earth’s radius R . By substituting the known values of g, G, and R, the Earth’s mass is determined to be approximately 6 \times 10²⁴ kg.
This calculation was made possible when the value of G was first experimentally determined by Cavendish, earning him the distinction of being the first person to weigh the Earth.
Average Density of the Earth:
The average density of the Earth can also be estimated using its mass and volume. Although the density of the Earth’s upper layers is around 2700 kg/m³, the inner layers have much higher densities, leading to an overall average density of about 5500 kg/m³.