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The following table shows the period of revolution of some unknown planets of equal mass.

Period of RevolutionPlanet Period of Revolution
W 1.9 years
X 11.8 years


Which of the following best explains which planet is farther from the sun?

Planet W, because gravity is inversely proportional to the square of distance
Planet X, because gravity is inversely proportional to the square of distance
Planet X, because the sun exerts a greater gravitational force on it than on planet W
Planet W, because the sun exerts a greater gravitational force on it than on planet X

2 Answers

7 votes

Answer:

Planet X, because gravity is inversely proportional to the square of distance

Step-by-step explanation:

User Rushi Trivedi
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5 votes

Answer:

Planet X, because gravity is inversely proportional to the square of distance

Step-by-step explanation:

gravitational force is inversely proportional to square of distance . Distant planet therefore will experience less gravitation force by the sun . so centripetal force for circular motion of distant planet will be less , Hence ω

will be less ( centripetal acceleration is proportional to square of ω )

When ω is less, time period will be more.

User ABGR
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