Question

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

Answer 1

Answer:

First case : Gravitational force = 1.5625

Second case : Gravitational force = 0.04

Explanation:

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

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

so ( $\frac{5}{4}$ )²

    = $\frac{25}{16}$

    = 1.5625

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

Distance increases, so force decreases.

so $\frac{1}{5}$²

 = $\frac{1}{25}$

 = 0.04