Question

The separation distance between two 1.0 kg masses is changed. How is the mutual gravitational force affected in each case?

Answer 1

First case : Gravitational force = 1.5625

Second case : Gravitational force = 0.04

Step-by-step explanation:

a) The separation distance is four-fifths the original distance.

Distance decreases, so force increases. i .e., F2 ÷ F1

so (
`(5)/(4)` )²

=
`(25)/(16)`

= 1.5625

b) The separation distance is 5 times the original distance. i.e. F2 ÷ F1

Distance increases, so force decreases.

so
`(1)/(5)`²

=
`(1)/(25)`

= 0.04