Magnitude of the maximum gravitational force

In summary, the maximum gravitational force that can be exerted between a bowling ball and a billiard ball, both treated as uniform spheres, is approximately 7.43913043 × 10^-9 N. However, the formula for gravitational force does not include a minus sign and the question asks for the magnitude of the force, which is always positive.
  • #1
onyxorca
20
0

Homework Statement



A bowling ball (mass = 5.9 kg, radius = 0.11 m) and a billiard ball (mass = 0.36 kg, radius = 0.028 m) may each be treated as uniform spheres. What is the magnitude of the maximum gravitational force that each can exert on the other?

Homework Equations



F=-Gm1m2/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution



6.67*10^-11*5.9*.36/-(.11+.028)^2 = -7.43913043 × 10^-9 N

right?
 
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  • #2
Right. altough I don't think the minus sign is right.
 
  • #3
but that's the minus sign from the formula isn't it?
 
  • #4
onyxorca said:
but that's the minus sign from the formula isn't it?

The formula is usually given without a minus sign. The question also asks for the magnitude of the force, which has to be positive.
 

What is the magnitude of the maximum gravitational force?

The magnitude of the maximum gravitational force is the maximum amount of force that two objects can exert on each other due to their masses and distance.

How is the magnitude of the maximum gravitational force calculated?

The magnitude of the maximum gravitational force is calculated using the formula F=G(m1m2)/r^2, where G is the gravitational constant, m1 and m2 are the masses of the two objects, and r is the distance between them.

Is the magnitude of the maximum gravitational force the same for all objects?

No, the magnitude of the maximum gravitational force varies depending on the masses and distance of the objects. Objects with larger masses and closer distances will have a greater magnitude of the maximum gravitational force.

Can the magnitude of the maximum gravitational force change?

Yes, the magnitude of the maximum gravitational force can change if the masses or distance of the objects change. It is also affected by the presence of other objects in the vicinity.

What is the significance of the magnitude of the maximum gravitational force?

The magnitude of the maximum gravitational force is significant because it determines the strength of the gravitational attraction between two objects. It is a fundamental force that governs the motion of planets, stars, and other celestial bodies in the universe.

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