Force of attraction between mars and its moon

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the height of Phobos, Mars' moon, above its surface based on the gravitational force between Mars and Phobos. The problem involves understanding the relationship between mass, distance, and gravitational force.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to clarify the problem statement and the variables involved, particularly the confusion regarding the reference to Earth's moon. There is a focus on understanding the gravitational force equation and the distances involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking to clarify the problem's parameters and the relationships between the celestial bodies involved. Some guidance has been offered regarding the correct identification of Phobos as the moon in question, but no consensus has been reached on the solution.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be confusion regarding the terms used in the problem, particularly the reference to "the moon," which some participants interpret as Earth's moon rather than Phobos. This has led to questions about the problem's exact wording and intent.

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Homework Statement


The force of attraction between Mars and its moon, Phobos, which has a mass of 1.072 x 10^16kg and a radius of 11.1km is 5,18 x 10^15 N
Find the height of Phobos above the surface of the moon.


Homework Equations


f=G(m1)(m2)/d^2
d(mars-phobos surfaces)= d (moon-phobos centres) - r (moon) - r(phobos)


The Attempt at a Solution


distance between the centres of Mars and phobos= 9.37 x 10^6m
radius of moon= 1.74 x10 ^6m

I don't know how they get the answer 5.95 x 10^6m
 
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Bumping your thread after 2 minutes will NOT win you any friends on this forum. The rules, which you clearly have not read, say wait at least 24 HOURS, not 2 minutes.
 
First time. Thanks, won't happen again.
 
No problem. Sorry I can't help w/ your problem.
 
Your attempt at answering the question is unclear. Phobos is a satellite of Mars. The 'moon' is 'Phobos', at least from Mars' perspective. You have suddenly inserted Earth's 'moon' into your problem. Your question is dealing only with Mars and Phobos.
 
What is the exact statement of the problem as given to you? Surely the problem can't be asking about the distance between Earth's moon and one of Mars' moons.
 

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