Equation of motion of particle in gravitational field

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving two particles, m1 and m2, at positions x1 and x2. The goal is to find the equation of motion for particle m1 due to the gravitational field of m2. The equations used are F=Gm1m2/r^2 and F=ma, and the final equation to be solved is d^2x1/dt^2=-Gm2/(x2-x1)^2.
  • #1
Gebar
6
0

Homework Statement


We have two particles, m1 and m2 at positions x1 and x2, and we want to come up with the equation of motion of particle m1 due to the gravitational field of m2 (position of m1 as a function of time).


Homework Equations


F=Gm1m2/r^2
F=ma


The Attempt at a Solution


m1a=-Gm1m2/r^2
a=-Gm2/(x2-x1)^2
d^2x1/dt^2=-Gm2/(x2-x1)^2

Now, I don't know how to solve this. Any help will by appreciated.
 
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  • #2
im confused at what ur asking for but here we go it might give u a start

F= Gm1m2/r^2
F=ma

m1a=Gm1m2/r^2

a=Gm2/r^2

v/t=Gm2/r^2

v=Gm2t/r^2

then use Speed = dist/time

is that what u wanted?
 
  • #3
Aaron321 said:
im confused at what ur asking for but here we go it might give u a start

F= Gm1m2/r^2
F=ma

m1a=Gm1m2/r^2

a=Gm2/r^2

v/t=Gm2/r^2

v=Gm2t/r^2

then use Speed = dist/time

is that what u wanted?
The accelaration changes since the distance between the particles changes, so I think this has to be solved analytically. I just don't know how to handle the final equation I gave, d^2x1/dt^2=-Gm2/(x2-x1)^2
 

What is the equation of motion of a particle in a gravitational field?

The equation of motion of a particle in a gravitational field is given by Newton's Second Law, which states that the net force acting on an object is equal to its mass times its acceleration. In the case of a particle in a gravitational field, the net force is the force of gravity, which is equal to the product of the particle's mass and the acceleration due to gravity.

How is the equation of motion affected by the mass of the particle?

The equation of motion is directly affected by the mass of the particle, as seen in Newton's Second Law. The greater the mass of the particle, the greater the force of gravity acting on it, and therefore the greater the acceleration. This means that a more massive particle will experience a greater acceleration in a gravitational field compared to a less massive particle.

What is the role of acceleration due to gravity in the equation of motion?

The acceleration due to gravity, denoted as "g", is a constant that represents the strength of the gravitational field. It is a crucial factor in the equation of motion as it determines the magnitude of the acceleration experienced by the particle. The value of "g" varies depending on the strength of the gravitational field, which is determined by the mass and distance of the objects creating the field.

How does the distance between two objects affect the equation of motion?

The distance between two objects does not directly affect the equation of motion. However, it does play a significant role in determining the strength of the gravitational field and, therefore, the acceleration experienced by the particle. According to the law of universal gravitation, the force of gravity decreases as the distance between two objects increases.

Is the equation of motion the same for all objects in a gravitational field?

Yes, the equation of motion is the same for all objects in a gravitational field, regardless of their mass or size. This is because all objects experience the same acceleration due to gravity, regardless of their individual characteristics. However, the effect of this acceleration may vary depending on the mass of the object, as seen in Newton's Second Law.

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