How does the mass of an object relate to the gravitational force the objects exerts on othere objects?

Answer 1

The greater the mass of the object, the greater the gravitational force it exerts on other objects. A planet will hold you to it pretty well, but a pebble won't exert much force on you at all.

Answer 2

Thinking strictly newtonian

F = [G M1 M2]/ d^2

F = Force of attraction between two bodies
G = universal gravitational constant
M1 = mass of body 1
M2 = mass of body 2
d = distance

THis is also referred to the inverse square law of gravity. The farther apart two objects are, the less proportionally their gravitational attraction to each other is. Double the distance, attraction weakens 4 times, triple it then 9 times.

In specific answer to your question's wording, mass is directly proportional to the attraction. Make either M1 or M2 bigger and it gives a bigger force.

Side note....Einstein's General Theory used different mathematics to more accurately describe gravity as the result of curved or warped space. But, I think you're probably dealing with Newtonian physics so stick to that.

Oh yes and do not confuse G with g. G is the universal constant. g is earth's gravity. Use big G's value for this equation always.

Answer 3

Picture this. Earth is now only half the mass it was. The moon, of course, has floated away.