Cavendish Experiment

Definition

The Cavendish Experiment is a scientific experiment conducted by Henry Cavendish in 1798 to measure the force of gravitational attraction between masses and, consequently, to determine the density of the Earth. This experiment provided crucial evidence for the existence of gravitational force and established a method to calculate the gravitational constant, linking it directly to the concept of Newtonian potential and gravitation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Cavendish Experiment was groundbreaking as it was one of the first experiments to quantitatively measure gravitational attraction between masses.
2. Cavendish used a torsion balance, which allowed him to detect incredibly small forces, demonstrating that gravity could be measured accurately on a laboratory scale.
3. The experiment led to the calculation of the Earth's density, providing insights into its composition and structure.
4. Cavendish's work laid the foundation for future research in gravitation and refined our understanding of gravitational forces acting at a distance.
5. The findings from the Cavendish Experiment were pivotal in advancing Newtonian physics and helped solidify the framework for gravitational studies that followed.

Review Questions

• How did the Cavendish Experiment contribute to our understanding of gravitational forces?
  • The Cavendish Experiment was instrumental in providing quantitative measurements of gravitational forces between masses, demonstrating that gravity could be detected and measured accurately. By using a torsion balance, Cavendish measured the tiny forces acting between lead spheres, which allowed him to establish a method for calculating the gravitational constant. This experiment directly linked empirical data to Newton's theories, enhancing our understanding of how mass interacts through gravity.
• Discuss the significance of using a torsion balance in the Cavendish Experiment and how it impacted experimental physics.
  • The use of a torsion balance in the Cavendish Experiment was significant because it allowed for the measurement of extremely small forces that were previously undetectable. By suspending a bar from a thin wire, Cavendish was able to observe the tiny angular displacement caused by gravitational attraction between lead spheres. This innovative approach not only demonstrated how delicate instruments could yield important scientific data but also set a precedent for precision measurement techniques in experimental physics.
• Evaluate how the results from the Cavendish Experiment influenced subsequent developments in gravitational theory and measurement techniques.
  • The results from the Cavendish Experiment had a profound influence on subsequent developments in gravitational theory, as they provided empirical evidence supporting Newton's law of universal gravitation. By calculating the density of the Earth and establishing a value for the gravitational constant, Cavendish's work set a benchmark for future research in gravitation. This experiment also inspired advancements in measurement techniques, leading to more precise instruments and methodologies in both theoretical and experimental physics, ultimately enhancing our understanding of fundamental forces in nature.

Related terms

Gravitational Constant (G): A fundamental physical constant that appears in the law of universal gravitation, representing the proportionality factor used to calculate the gravitational force between two masses.

Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation: A physical law stating that every point mass attracts every other point mass with a force that is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between their centers.

Torsion Balance: An apparatus used in the Cavendish Experiment consisting of a horizontal bar suspended from a thin wire, which measures the tiny forces of attraction between lead spheres at its ends.