Step-by-step explanation:
It is given that, two objects, with masses m₁ and m₂, are originally a distance r apart, and the magnitude of the gravitational force on each one is F. If the objects are moved a distance 2 r apart, we need to find the new gravitational force.
The gravitational force is given by :
...........(1)
Let the force is F' when the objects are moved a distance 2 r apart. So,


(from equation (1))
So, it is clear that the magnitude of new force is F/4 i.e. decreases by a factor is 1/4. Hence, this is the required solution.