Graph How Distance Weakens Gravity
Written by Adi Ackerman, Head Teacher
"Graph How Distance Weakens Gravity" is written for 7th Grade (Ages 12-13), and it covers NGSS MS-PS2-4. A 6th grader who is already steady on Earth and space can use it too, and an older student can use it as a short review.
2 pages in this set
7th grade science worksheet: graph how gravity weakens with distance and grows with mass, then apply the rules to satellites. Answer key included. Part of our solar system earth and space collection. Aligned to NGSS standards.
How do I use this worksheet?
Teach the gravity rules first so students can explain why planets orbit. Then use the scale model sheet to connect gravity to the sizes and distances in the solar system.
What students will practice
- Students will complete tables of relative gravitational force as distance changes.
- Students will graph two cases and compare how each line changes as distance grows.
- Students will predict how a satellite's orbit radius or mass changes the force on it.
Curriculum Links
Next Generation Science Standards
Science · 7th Grade
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FAQ
How do I use this solar system worksheet?
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Teach the gravity rules first so students can explain why planets orbit. Then use the scale model sheet to connect gravity to the sizes and distances in the solar system.
What does this worksheet teach?
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Graph how gravity weakens with distance and grows with mass, then apply the rules to satellites. The directions on the page read: Use the rules to complete both tables. Round decimals to the nearest hundredth. Plot each table on the graph below it and connect the points. Then complete page 2. An answer key is included.
Can I use this solar system worksheet for homeschool or classroom?
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Yes, both. We made it for 7th grade Earth and space, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.
What is an AU?
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An AU is the distance from Earth to the Sun, about 150,000,000 km. The model sheet uses a scale where 1 AU is 10 cm.
Why do model solar systems need two scales?
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Distances are so large compared with planet sizes that one scale cannot show both. The sheet uses 1 AU = 10 cm for distance and 1 cm = 10,000 km for size.
What happens to gravity if distance doubles?
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The force falls to one fourth. If one mass doubles, the force doubles.
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Worksheet Details
| Grade | 7th Grade |
| Subject | Science |
| Topic | Earth and Space |
| Standard | MS-PS2-4 |
| Pages | 2 pages |
| Difficulty | Medium |
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