Answer:
W = 13.44 KN
Explanation:
First, we need to find the value of acceleration due to gravity at the specified height:
[tex]g' = g(1-2\frac{h}{R})[/tex]
where,
g' = value of acceleration due to gravity at given height = ?
g = value of acceleration due to gravity at surface of earth = 9.81 m/s²
h = height of space craft = 8.375 x 10⁶ m - 6.37 x 10⁶ m = 2.005 x 10⁶ m
R = Radius of Earth = 6.37 x 10⁶ m
Therefore,
[tex]g' = (9.81\ m/s^2)(1-2\frac{2.005\ x\ 10^6\ m}{6.37\ x\ 10^6\ m})\\\\g' = (9.81\ m/s^2)(1 - 0.315)\\g' = 6.72\ m/s^2[/tex]
Now, we can find the weight or force of gravity on space craft:
[tex]W = mg'[/tex]
where,
W = Force of gravity on space craft = ?
m = mass of space craft = 2000 kg
Therefore,
[tex]W = (2000 kg)(6.72\ m/s^2)[/tex]
W = 13.44 KN
