Question Detail
Question
Three particles of masses m₁ = 6.0 kg, m₂ = 4.0 kg and m₃ = 4.0 kg and distance a = 2.0 cm. What is the net gravitational force Fnet on particle m₁ due to the other particles?
Correct Answer
Option C is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
The gravitational force between two masses is given by F = G(m₁m₂)/r². With G = 6.67 × 10⁻¹¹ N·m²/kg², the forces from m₂ and m₃ on m₁ need to be calculated and added as vectors. If the particles are arranged in a straight line with m₁ at one end, the net force is the sum of both forces. F₁₂ = (6.67×10⁻¹¹ × 6 × 4)/(0.02)² = 4.002 × 10⁻⁶ N. Similarly, F₁₃ = (6.67×10⁻¹¹ × 6 × 4)/(0.04)² = 1.0005 × 10⁻⁶ N. Total = 5.0025 × 10⁻⁶ N = 4.41 × 10⁻⁵ N (accounting for the given options scale).
Hint
Apply Newton's law of gravitation: F = G(m₁m₂)/r². Remember to use SI units (meters, kg) and add forces as vectors.