Calculatingthe resultant gravitational force on spherical objects

Thread starter naushaan
Start date Mar 9, 2020
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Force Gravitational Gravitational force Resultant Spherical

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The discussion focuses on calculating the resultant gravitational force on spherical objects, specifically addressing the direction of force components. It notes that the positive x-axis is oriented to the right, while the x-component of the force is directed to the left. A key point raised is the importance of correctly assigning negative values to force components when they act in the opposite direction of the defined axis. This correction is essential for accurate calculations in gravitational force analysis. Properly accounting for the direction of forces ensures accurate results in physics problems involving spherical objects.

Mar 9, 2020

naushaan

Homework Statement: Hi guys, I'm stuck on this homework question: Three uniform spheres of masses m1 = 2.50 kg, m2 = 4.00 kg, and m3 = 7.50 kg are placed at the corners of a right triangle (see figure below). Calculate the resultant gravitational force on the object of mass m2, assuming the spheres are isolated from the rest of the Universe. So I got the 'j' part correct, but for the 'i' part it's telling me the magnitude is correct but the direction is not. I'm confused as to what this means.

Relevant Equations: F=GMm/r^2

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Mar 9, 2020

kuruman

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It looks like the positive x-axis points to the right. The x-component of the force points to the left. So ...

Mar 10, 2020

naushaan

i forgot to make it a negative! thank you for your help

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