Is gravity less at the top of the Everest?

Gravity at the Peak of Mount Everest: A Subtle Variation

As one ascends to the summit of Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, they may wonder if the gravitational pull experienced there differs from the sea level. The answer is yes, but the difference is remarkably small and imperceptible to the human senses.

Earth’s Gravitational Field

Gravity is a fundamental force that attracts any two objects with mass toward each other. Earth’s gravitational field is primarily due to its massive core, composed mostly of iron and nickel. The closer an object is to the core, the stronger the gravitational pull.

Gravity at the Summit of Everest

Standing atop Everest, at an elevation of approximately 8,848 meters (29,032 feet), one is indeed farther from Earth’s core than at sea level. This increased distance results in a slightly weaker gravitational pull. Scientists estimate that the gravitational acceleration at the summit is approximately 0.7% less than at sea level. This means that a 100-kilogram person would weigh about 700 grams (1.5 pounds) less on the peak of Everest than at sea level.

Detectability of the Variation

However, this difference in weight is far too subtle to be perceptible to the human body. Even the most sensitive weighing scales used at the summit of Everest have not been able to detect the change. Only highly specialized instruments, such as gravimeters, can measure such a minute variation in gravitational pull.

Implications

The reduced gravity at the summit of Everest has some implications for mountaineers. For example, it makes climbing more difficult as they have less weight pushing them down. Additionally, the lower gravitational pull can affect the body’s physiological processes, such as metabolism and oxygen absorption.

Conclusion

While gravity is indeed less at the summit of Mount Everest, the difference is negligible to the human senses and only detectable by specialized instruments. The gravitational pull remains strong enough to support climbers and ensure their safe return to the lower altitudes.