# Answer the following question in detail. At which place on the Earth’s surface is the gravitational acceleration maximum? Why? - Physics

Short Note

Answer the following question in detail.

At which place on the Earth’s surface is the gravitational acceleration maximum? Why?

#### Solution

1. Gravitational acceleration on the surface of the Earth depends on the latitude of the place as well as the rotation and shape of the Earth.
2. At poles, latitude θ = 90°.
∴ g' = g
i.e., there is no reduction in acceleration due to gravity at poles.
3. Also, shape of the Earth is actually an ellipsoid, bulged at equator. The polar radius of the Earth is 6356 km which minimum. As
g ∝ 1/"R"^2, acceleration due to gravity is maximum at poles i.e., 9.8322 m/s2.
Concept: Variation in the Acceleration Due to Gravity with Altitude, Depth, Latitude and Shape
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#### APPEARS IN

Balbharati Physics 11th Standard Maharashtra State Board
Chapter 5 Gravitation
Exercises | Q 3. (viii) | Page 98