State some factors (other than altitude, depth and latitude) on which g depends. What is the utility of measuring g accurately on earth surface?

The acceleration due to gravity, which is represented by g, is dependent on several factors other than altitude, depth, and latitude. These are as follows:

1. Earth’s Rotation: The centrifugal force caused by Earth’s rotation reduces the effective value of g at the equator relative to the poles. This is because the rotational speed is maximum at the equator.

2. Local Geological Variations: Variation in the Earth’s density due to geological structures such as mountains, valleys, or mineral deposits causes variation in gravitational acceleration. For instance, denser materials in a region would show a slightly higher value of g.

3. Earth’s Shape The Earth is not a sphere but rather an oblate spheroid. Therefore, the equatorial radius is greater than the polar radius, and this produces differences in gravity along the Earth surface.

Measuring g accurately on Earth’s surface has immense application. It is necessary in geophysics, navigation, and satellite technology among other scientific and engineering applications. The measurement of gravity with an accuracy helps understand the internal structure of Earth, identify mineral resources, and improve gravitational models for satellites. Changes in g can be monitored to assess geological activities and help evaluate the natural calamities like earthquakes and landslides.