The discussion revolves around calculating the net gravitational force on planet Z due to two other planets, X and Y, given their masses and distances. The problem is situated in the context of gravitational interactions among celestial bodies.
Some participants have clarified that the planets are aligned in a row and suggest that the distance from X to Z can be determined by summing the distances between X and Y and Y and Z. However, there is no explicit resolution or consensus on the next steps to take.
The distance from X to Z is not provided, leading to discussions about how to derive it from the given distances. There is also uncertainty regarding the arrangement of the planets and whether additional information is needed.
wasi90lk said:Homework Statement
three planets, X,Y and Z, are situated in 3 different places.
distance between X and Y = 60 x 106 km
distance between Y and Z = 50 x 106 km
mass of X = 3.0 x 1024 kg
mass of Y = 4.0 x 1024 kg
mass of Z = 5.0 x 1024 kg
find the net gravitational force on planet Z.
Homework Equations
F = Gm1m2/r2
The Attempt at a Solution
i am not sure where to start.
wasi90lk said:they are all in a row. distance between X and Z isn't given, but we can get that by adding distance of X+Y and distance of Y+Z.