Question

If all planets were the same distance from the sun, which would have the largest gravitational force between itself and the sun? Why?

If all planets were the same mass, which would have the lowest gravitational force between itself and the sun? Why?

Answer 1

Answer: Mercury

Step-by-step explanation:

Looking at the general equation for gravity attached below we see that radius is indirectly proportional so as it increases the force decreases.

The masses of m1 and m2 are directly proportional so as either of them increases then the gravitational force increases.

In this example the radius and m2 are all the same so the only difference will be the mass of the other planets.

Mercury has the lowest mass of all the planets in the solar system so it will also have the lowest gravitational force between it and the sun in this example.