An astronaut working at a research station on the Moon notices that everyday…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Force and Translational Dynamics · Force and Translational Dynamics
Problem
An astronaut working at a research station on the Moon notices that everyday activities "feel" different from those on Earth, even though her equipment and body are unchanged.
(a) Describe the difference between the physical quantities "mass" and "weight" for the astronaut. In your description, be sure to identify which quantity is an intrinsic property of the astronaut–equipment system and which depends on the environment.
(b) On Earth, the astronaut’s weight is measured to be 780N. Without performing a numerical calculation, state whether her weight on the Moon is larger, smaller, or the same as this value and explain your reasoning based on the relevant environmental factor.
(c) When the astronaut travels from Earth to the Moon while wearing the same spacesuit, which of the two quantities—mass or weight—changes? Justify your answer in terms of the underlying cause of the change.