Gravitational Force between two equal masses

In summary, the formula for calculating the gravitational force between two equal masses is F = G(m1m2)/d^2, where G is the gravitational constant (6.67 x 10^-11), m1 and m2 are the masses of the two objects, and d is the distance between them. The gravitational force is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between the objects. The unit of measurement for gravitational force is Newton (N) and it can never be zero, as long as the two masses exist. The gravitational force experienced by an object is directly proportional to its mass.
  • #1
physgrl
138
0

Homework Statement



Two equal masses are precisely 1 m apart from each other. The gravitational force each exerts on the other is exactly 2. What is the value of each mass?

*a. 1.73*10^5kg

b. 1.50*10^10kg

c. 2.50*10^5kg

d. 1.58*10^10kg

Homework Equations



F=Gmm/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I did
F=Gmm/r^2
2=G2m/1 (because the masses are equal)
m=2*1/2G
m=1/G
m=1.50*10^10kg

I don't know why B is wrong and A is right (according to the answer key);
 
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  • #2
Hi physgrl! :smile:

I'm afraid that [itex]m \cdot m \ne 2m[/itex].
 
  • #3
uups my mistake :s
 

What is the formula for calculating the gravitational force between two equal masses?

The formula for calculating the gravitational force between two equal masses is F = G(m1m2)/d^2, where G is the gravitational constant (6.67 x 10^-11), m1 and m2 are the masses of the two objects, and d is the distance between them.

How does the distance between two objects affect the gravitational force between them?

The gravitational force between two equal masses is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. This means that as the distance between the objects increases, the force of gravity decreases.

What is the unit of measurement for gravitational force?

The unit of measurement for gravitational force is Newton (N). This unit is named after Sir Isaac Newton, who first described the law of universal gravitation.

Can the gravitational force between two equal masses ever be zero?

No, the gravitational force between two equal masses can never be zero. As long as the two masses exist, there will always be a force of gravity between them, even if it is very small.

How does the mass of an object affect the gravitational force it experiences?

The gravitational force experienced by an object is directly proportional to its mass. This means that the greater the mass of an object, the greater the force of gravity it experiences from another object of equal mass.

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