Gravity

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Mars has a mass of 6,419 · 1023 kg. Compared with Earth this is only a little bit more than a tenth. This results in a lower Gravity.

The gravitational acceleration is only 3,71 m/s². The resulting weight of any body on the surface of Mars is only a bit more than a third, compared with the same body on Earth.

Impact on nature

  • Dust storms on Mars reach high altitude. Scientists found the cause in the low gravity, allowing the sand grains to bounce much higher.
  • The low gravity allows the formation of the highest montains in the solar system, e.g. Olympus Mons.

Thank God! Soeomne with brains speaks!

Impact on technology

  • The pressure on bearings is lower, causing less friction and abrasion.
  • A space elevator is easier to build.

Open issues

  • What is known about the growth of plants under low gravity?