When an object falls freely towards the surface of the earth from a certain height, then its velocity changes. This change in velocity produces acceleration in the object which is known as acceleration due to gravity denoted by the letter g. The value of acceleration due to gravity is g= 9.8 m/s2.
Acceleration due to Gravity – Formula, Unit and Values
Symbol | g |
Dimensional Formula | M0L1T-2 |
SI Unit | ms-2 |
Formula | g = GM/r2 |
Factors that affect acceleration due to gravity
The value of acceleration due to gravity ‘g’ is affected by
- Altitude above the earth’s surface.
- Depth below the earth’s surface.
- The shape of the earth.
- Rotational motion of the earth.