Physics/gravitational force
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Question
This may be a stupid question but here it is. Would it be possible to build something so massive that one could quantifiably measure the gravitational forces it is exhibiting on objects around it?
Thanks in advance for your time and consideration.
David
It doesn't have to be large at all, we measure this all the time. It's a classic experiment called the Cavendish experiment. Originally designed to measure the mass of the Earth, it is now used to determine the universal gravitational constant.
See here for instructions:
http://www.fas.harvard.edu/~scdiroff/lds/NewtonianMechanics/CavendishExperiment/...
There's also a good wikipedia page on the subject.
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Steve Nelson
Expertise
I can answer most basic physics questions, physics questions about science fiction and everyday observations of physics, etc. I'm also usually good for science fair advice (I'm the regional science fair director). I do not answer homework problems. I will occasionally point out where a homework solution went wrong, though. I'm usually good at explaining odd observations that seem counterintuitive, energy science, nuclear physics, nuclear astrophysics, and alternative theories of physics are my specialties.
Experience
I'm a physics professor at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin, research in nuclear technology and nuclear astrophysics. I teach physics, nuclear chemistry, radiation safety, vacuum technology, and answer tons of questions as I tour schools encouraging students to consider careers in science.
Education/Credentials
Ph. D. from Duke University in physics, research in nuclear astrophysics reactions, gamma-ray astronomy technology, and advanced nuclear reactors.
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