Finding Equilibrium: Solving a Black Hole Parking Problem

In summary, the conversation discusses two black holes with masses of 5x10^30 kg and 9x10^30 kg, respectively, that are 3.0x10^6 m apart. A spaceship with an unknown mass is traveling between them and the captain needs to park the ship at a distance x from the left black hole in order to have a net gravitational force of 0 from both black holes. The equation for this equilibrium is (6.67x10^-11(5x10^30)(M3)/x^2) + (6.67x10^-11(9x10^30)(M3)/d-x^2), where M3 is the mass of the spaceship. The
  • #1
kmcshane386
1
0
Consider two black holes: the left one has a mass M1= 5x10^30 kg, and the right one has a mass of M2= 9x10^30 kg, and they are a distance d= 3.0x10^6 m apart. A spaceship passing between them is having engine trouble and so the captain has to park the ship somewhere where he won't get sucked into either black hole. So question is, what is the distance x the he must park away from the left black hole so that the net gravitational force due to both black holes on his ship is 0.

Equations: M3= mass of spaceship
G(M1)(M3)/x^2 + G(M2)(M3)/d-x^2=0



(6.67x10^-11(5x10^30)(M3)/x^2) + (6.67x10^-11(9x10^30)(M3)/d-x^2)

How do I find the mass of the spaceship? I feel like I'm missing a variable...
 
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  • #2
Why do u need the mass of the spaceship?

Also, why is your equation for equilibrium
G(M1)(M3)/x^2 + G(M2)(M3)/d-x^2=0 ?

The sum of two strictly positive quantities cannot be zero.
 

What is a black hole?

A black hole is a region in space where the gravitational pull is so strong that nothing, including light, can escape from it.

How are black holes formed?

Black holes are formed when a star dies and its core collapses under its own gravity, becoming infinitely dense.

What is the homework problem related to black holes?

The homework problem related to black holes typically involves calculations or equations related to their mass, size, or gravitational pull.

Why are black holes important in scientific research?

Black holes are important in scientific research as they can teach us about gravity, space-time, and the behavior of matter under extreme conditions. They also play a crucial role in astrophysics and our understanding of the universe.

Is there a way to observe black holes directly?

Currently, there is no way to observe black holes directly as they do not emit any light. However, scientists use indirect methods such as observing their effects on surrounding matter or detecting their gravitational waves to study them.

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