“If Earth were flat…”

Gravity on a Disk — Interactive

Ready.
Tip: hover ℹ︎ areas for bite‑size physics notes.

Surface ‘Down’ Map

Cursor: —
Profiles(— ms)
low tiltmedhighextreme
Reference line at 9.81 m/s² for comparison.
Assumptions & Model (legend)
  • Newtonian gravity: sum of G·dm·r̂ / r² over a circular slab. No relativity.
  • Finite disk: radius km; thickness varies by taper. Top surface only.
  • Density: base ρ with optional center bias. Mountains/oceans ignored.
  • Spin (optional): simple centrifugal term ω²r (ω=2π/Day).
  • Softening: tiny height ε above surface to avoid singularities; thickness integrated as an average depth.
  • Symmetry: radial profile + rotation → fast field.
  • Continents overlay: schematic, azimuthal‑ish outlines for teaching; not geodetic.
What it might feel like: near the center plumb lines are nearly straight; toward the edge ‘down’ leans inward—walking feels like a constant slight slope toward the middle. Weight changes with radius.