Question

Four particles, each with mass m, are arranged symmetrically about the origin on the x axis. A fifth particle, with mass M, is on the y axis. The direction of the gravitational force on M is:

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

Let four particles are placed on X axis symmetrically about the origin and M is placed on y axis.

According to the diagram, the x component of forces balances each other and the net force acting on the particle of mass m is acting in the direction of negative Y axis.