lesson
Earth pulls objects towards it
1 · Learn
Gravity is an attractive force between masses. Earth's gravity pulls objects towards its centre, helping explain why unsupported objects fall towards the ground.
A falling object may also experience air resistance. Different falling motions do not prove gravity is absent; several forces can act at once. Mass and weight are related but different quantities.
2 · Worked example
A dropped paper sheet falls differently from the same sheet scrunched up. The shape changes air resistance; it does not switch Earth's gravity off.
3 · Your turn
Does an object stop experiencing gravity because air resistance slows its fall?
Check your answer
No. Gravity and air resistance can act at the same time.
4 · Apply your learning
Plan a low-height adult-supervised comparison using safe light paper shapes. Explain what changes and what remains the same.
Adult guidance and safety
No dropping heavy objects, climbing, balconies or throwing. Keep the area clear and use only safe low heights.
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Check a calculation · Year 5 onward
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