Gravitational attraction problem

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the gravitational attraction between Tom and Sally, use the formula F = G(MaMb/d^2), where G is the gravitational constant, Ma is Tom's mass, Mb is Sally's mass, and d is the distance between them. Tom's mass is 70.0 kg and Sally's mass is 50.0 kg, with a distance of 20.0 m separating them. The instruction to assume they can be replaced by spherical masses simplifies the calculation, allowing the use of their masses as point-like objects. The confusion arises from understanding this assumption, but it essentially means to treat them as if all their mass is concentrated at a single point. The problem is straightforward once the values are plugged into the equation.
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Homework Statement


Tom has a mass of 70.0 kg and Sally has a mass of 50.0 kg. Tom and Sally are standing 20.0 m apart on the dance floor. Sally looks up and sees Tom. She feels an attraction. If the attraction is gravitational, find its size. Assume that both Tom and Sally can be replaced by spherical masses.
 
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Do you know the equation for gravitational force?
 
F = G(MaMb/d^2)
 
Then what is the problem? It looks like just a plug in situation no?
 
All you need to do is put the numbers in. Is there something specific that you're unsure of?
 
yeah i was just a little confused as to what "Assume that both Tom and Sally can be replaced by spherical masses" means..
 
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