Calculating the Distance of a Zero Gravitational Field Between Earth and Moon

AI Thread Summary
To find the point between Earth and the Moon where the gravitational field is zero, one must calculate the distance from Earth's center where the gravitational forces from both bodies balance. The gravitational field from Earth and the Moon act in opposite directions, creating a point of equilibrium. The masses of Earth (6.0 x 10^24 kg) and the Moon (7.3 x 10^22 kg), along with the Moon's orbital radius (3.8 x 10^8 m), are crucial for the calculation. The challenge lies in correctly applying gravitational equations to determine the exact distance. Ultimately, the solution involves equating the gravitational fields from both celestial bodies to find the balance point.
Nikola
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Homework Statement


There is a point between the Earth and the moon where the total gravitational field is zero. Given that the mass of Earth is 6.0*10^24 kg, the mass of the moon is 7.3*10^22 kg and the radius of the Moon's orbit is 3.8*10^8 m, calculate the distance of this point from the center of the earth.

Homework Equations


If there is always a gravitational field when does the field become negligible? (because it says the gravitational field is zero).

The Attempt at a Solution


i attempted substituting the equation into one another (g=F/m with g=Gm/r^2) but just got an answer that was way off. Maybe i substituted wrong.
 
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Nikola said:
If there is always a gravitational field when does the field become negligible?
there are two fields, one from the moon and one from the Earth. In between those fields pull in opposite directions. There must be a point at which they balance. Find that point.
 
At what distance ##r## and ##3.8*10^8 - r## does the gravitational field for the Earth and the gravitational field from the moon equal each other (since they are opposite forces)?
 
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