---
title: "Gravitational Constant (G) — AP Physics C Definition"
description: "The gravitational constant G (6.67 × 10⁻¹¹ N·m²/kg²) sets the strength of gravity in F = Gm₁m₂/r². Learn how G connects Newton's laws to orbits and weight."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-physics-c-mechanics/key-terms/gravitational-constant"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Physics C: Mechanics"
---

# Gravitational Constant (G) — AP Physics C Definition

## Definition

The gravitational constant (G) is a fundamental physical constant that determines the strength of gravitational forces between objects with mass. It appears in Newton's law of universal gravitation.

## Related Study Guides

- [2.3 Newton's Laws of Motion: Third Law](/ap-physics-c-mechanics/unit-2/newtons-laws-motion-third-law/study-guide/GMKr968z6vhqTY2DOP52)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Mass](/ap-physics-c-mechanics/key-terms/mass): Mass refers to the amount or quantity of matter contained in an object.
- Weight: Weight is the force experienced by an object due to gravity pulling it towards Earth or any other celestial body.
- Universal Law of Gravitation: The universal law of gravitation states that every particle attracts every other particle with a force directly proportional to their masses and inversely proportional to the square distance between them.