Ask A Scientist General Science Archive

Author:     Johnson
Text:  I was wondering why an object weighs less on top of a mountain then say 
a level such as sea-level.  I have been told that this is due to being going 
further away from the center of the earth (gravity) Is this true? or is it due 
to atmospheric pressures?

Response #:  1 of 2
Author:      Joe Schultz
Text:        If I remember my physics correctly...it is because of being 
farther from the Earth's center.  So yes, it is true.  Gravity is weaker as 
you get farther from the center.

Response #:  2 of 2
Author:      Ronald Winther
Text:        And the difference would be very slight.  An object weighing 100 
lb. at sea level would weigh about 99.7 lb at the height of the world's 
tallest mountain.