volume_mute
What object exerts the gravitational force on the apple?
publish date: 2023/03/14 22:50:00 GMT+11
volume_muteThe third law holds that for every force exerted by X on Y, there is an equal and opposite force exerted by Y on X. if this is true, there must be a force equal and opposite to the apple's weight. To see what this opposite force is, we must ask what object exerts the gravitational force on the apple?
Correct Answer
earth
Explanation
The earth does. Thus, the reaction force is the force of gravity exerted by the apple on the earth. Think of gravity as being a stretched spring between the apple and the earth. There is a force downward on the apple and upward on the earth.
Reference
Basic Physics: A Self-Teaching Guide