Question
GeneralGeneralGeneral

what do you mean by acceleration due to gravity

Verified Answer

Acceleration due to gravity is the acceleration produced in an object because of the gravitational force of the Earth. It is represented by the symbol:

g

When an object falls freely toward the Earth, its velocity increases continuously due to gravity.

Value of acceleration due to gravity

Near the Earth's surface:

g = 9.8 m/s²

This means the speed of a freely falling object increases by 9.8 m/s every second.

Important points

  • It acts vertically downward toward the centre of the Earth.

  • It is independent of the mass of the object.

  • It changes slightly from place to place depending on altitude and location.

Example

If a ball is dropped from a height, it accelerates downward because of gravity. This acceleration is called acceleration due to gravity.

It is an important concept in mechanics, motion, and gravitational studies.