Question

Rank the gravitational forces exerted on the Earth by the following objects.

(basketball, human being, skyscraper, car)

largest to smallest force.

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

According to newton's law of gravitation , equal force of attraction are applied on two masses m₁ and m₂ placed at distance d . This force is given by the expression

F = G m₁ m₂ / d²

If one of the masses be earth with mass M then d = radius of earth R

Force F = G Mm₁ / R²

this force is applied on both the earth and mass m₁ in equal magnitude and in opposite direction.

In the formula F is proportional to m₁

among the given objects in the question , m₁ of object varies in the following order.

skyscraper > car > human being > basket ball

So Force F on the earth by them will also vary in the same order.