Finding magnitude of gravitational force?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the gravitational force on a 30 kg sphere located at the origin due to three other spheres with given masses and coordinates. The subject area pertains to gravitational forces and vector addition in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of the gravitational force equation and the need to calculate distances between the spheres. Questions arise about the correct interpretation of 'r' in the equation and how to proceed after finding distances.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided clarifications regarding the definition of 'r' in the gravitational force equation, while others are exploring how to calculate the gravitational force for each sphere and combine them. There is an ongoing exchange of ideas without a clear consensus on the next steps.

Contextual Notes

Participants express confusion about which mass to use in the gravitational force equation and how to combine the forces from multiple spheres. The discussion reflects the complexities of vector addition in gravitational contexts.

gadawg90
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The masses and coordinates of three spheres are as follows: 16 kg, x = 0.75 m, y = 3.00 m; 34 kg, x = -2.50 m, y = -2.75 m; 60 kg, x = 0.00 m, y= -0.75 m. What is the magnitude of the gravitational force on a 30 kg sphere located at the origin due to the other spheres?

Homework Equations


i know to use this equation:F=(GMm)/r^2


i know you have to do a^2+b^2=c^2 to find the radius of each sphere but i just don't know what to do after that...
 
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The 'r' in the equation is the distance between the (centres) of the sphere it's not their radius

(we use 'r' in the law because it's usually the radius of an orbit 0
 
alright well if i find r then what do i do next?
 
Find 'F' for each object, then the overall direction/magnitude of F ( a diagram might help)
 
im still confused. when i find the distance what do i use as the second mass in the equation. and when i find F for all three spheres how do i find the gravitational force for the sphere at the origin?
 

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