The Gravity Equation
Gravity depends on two main factors: mass and distance. The Moon has only about 1.2% of Earth's mass, which means its gravitational pull is much weaker.
F = G × (m₁ × m₂)/r²
Where:
F = gravitational force
G = gravitational constant
m = masses of objects
r = distance between centers
Mass Matters Most
The Moon's mass is 7.35 × 10²² kg, compared to Earth's 5.97 × 10²⁴ kg. This means the Moon's gravity is only about 16.5% as strong as Earth's.
Earth Gravity
9.8 m/s²
Moon Gravity
1.62 m/s²
Interactive Jump Comparison
Click the figures to see how high you could jump on each celestial body!
On Earth
Click to jump!
On The Moon
Click to jump!
Drag to Feel the Difference
Drag the object on each side. Notice how much easier it is to move on the Moon!
On Earth
On The Moon
Why This Matters
The Moon's weaker gravity affects everything from how astronauts move to why the Moon couldn't hold onto an atmosphere like Earth did. This fundamental difference shapes the entire lunar environment.
Fun Fact
If Earth had the Moon's gravity, our atmosphere would have escaped into space long ago, making life as we know it impossible!