Gravitation Problem: Force of Sphere on Sheet

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The discussion revolves around calculating the gravitational force exerted by a uniform sphere on an infinite sheet of uniform density. The professor suggested finding the force of the sheet on the sphere, as they are equal, and the user attempted to apply a Gaussian cylinder method to derive the gravitational field. However, the user expressed uncertainty about their assumption that the gravitational field lines are solely in the z direction, which led to an incorrect result. The correct answer provided in the textbook is 2πGMρ, indicating a need for clarification on the Gaussian cylinder approach and its application in this context. Overall, the user seeks guidance on accurately applying the concepts to arrive at the correct gravitational force calculation.
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Homework Statement


If a uniform sphere of mass M and radius R, is height h above an infinite sheet of uniform density \rho_{s}, what is the gravitational force of the sphere, on the sheet.


Homework Equations


F=\frac{GMm}{R^{2}}; \Phi=\frac{GM}{R}; \nabla\bulletg=4\piG\rho; U=m\Phi; F=-\nablaU


The Attempt at a Solution


My professor advised me to find the force of the sheet on the sphere since that force would be equal to the force of the sphere on the sheet. So I drew a gaussian cylinder around my "sheet" and attempted to calculate g by saying that \nabla\bulletg = \frac{dg}{dz} since all relavent field lines were in the z direction. All I think I need to know is whether or not that was the correct assumption. I don't think it is because it yeilds an answer that looks like 4\piG\rhoz. And the z is an issue. the answer in the back of the book is 2\piGM\rho. Any help would be much appreciated.
 
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There is another way to use the gaussian cylinder. There's an equation that relates the surface integral of dA over the cylinder, to the mass within the cylinder. I think that will be useful here.
 
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