Return to Blog
Homepage
MCAT Physics Question — Moon Gravity
- by
- Jul 29, 2014
- MCAT Question of the Day
The moon’s gravity is 1/6 that of the earth. On earth, the buoyant force on a blueberry in a beer equals the weight of the blueberry, and it bounces up and down in the beer. On the moon, will the blueberry:
a) sink and stay down
b) float and stay at the surface of the beer
c) bounce the same as if on earth
d) float away
Explanation
Gravity contributes equally to both the weight of an object, mg, and the bouyant force of an object, vg. Since the gravity contributes equally, even though it is 1/6 its value on earth, the blueberry bounces in the beer just the same. Note, this does not work with every beer, it must be a slightly darker beer with just the right density.
a) sink and stay down, incorrect, The buoyant force is still equal to the weight although both are decreased in magnitude.
b) float and stay at the surface of the beer, incorrect, The weight still equals the buoyant force although both are decreased in magnitude.
c) bounce the same as if on earth, correct.
d) float away, incorrect, This would occur if there were no gravity and the blueberry an external force.
Want more MCAT practice?
We’ve got options for every schedule and learning style!
From the best online MCAT course created by top instructors with 524+ MCAT scores to the most representative full-length practice exams and private tutoring, we can custom tailor your MCAT prep to your goals!
Not sure which option is right for you? Schedule a free MCAT consultation with an MCAT expert using the form below. No obligation, just expert advice.
Related Posts
Search the Blog
Free Consultation
Interested in our Online MCAT Course, One-on-One MCAT Tutoring or Med admissions packages? Set up a free consultation with one of our experienced Senior Student Advisors.
Schedule NowPopular Posts
-
-
MCAT Blog What's on the MCAT? -
-
-
MCAT Blog How to Review MCAT Full Lengths
Free MCAT Practice Account
Need great MCAT practice?Get the most representative MCAT practice possible when you sign up for our free MCAT Account, which includes a half-length diagnostic exam and one of our full-length MCAT practice exams.
Learn More