Question

name: date: period: part 2: understanding gravity 3) for the sun and earth system: a. draw the path of the earth with gravity on and gravity off. select orbit path. be sure to include arrows gravity on gravity off b. why do you think gravity is important?

Explanation:

Step1: Earth's path with gravity on

When gravity is on, the Earth follows an elliptical - like orbit around the Sun due to the gravitational force of the Sun pulling on the Earth. Draw an elliptical path around the Sun (represented by a dot) with arrows indicating the direction of motion.

Step2: Earth's path with gravity off

According to Newton's first law, in the absence of an external force (gravity in this case), the Earth would move in a straight - line path at a constant velocity. Draw a straight line starting from its initial position relative to the Sun (represented by a dot) with an arrow indicating the direction of motion.

Step3: Importance of gravity

Gravity is important because it keeps the Earth in orbit around the Sun, allowing for a stable climate and conditions suitable for life. It also keeps the atmosphere around the Earth, and affects the tides, among other things.

Answer:

a. For Gravity ON: Draw an elliptical path around the Sun - dot with arrows showing the direction of Earth's orbit. For Gravity OFF: Draw a straight - line path starting from Earth's initial position relative to the Sun - dot with an arrow showing the direction of motion.
b. Gravity is important as it keeps the Earth in orbit around the Sun, maintains the atmosphere around the Earth and affects tides.