Gravitational attraction problem

In summary, Tom and Sally, with masses of 70.0 kg and 50.0 kg respectively, are standing 20.0 m apart on the dance floor. Sally feels a gravitational attraction towards Tom and the problem asks for the size of this attraction. Using the equation for gravitational force, F = G(MaMb/d^2), we can easily plug in the given numbers to find the answer. The only additional information is to assume that both Tom and Sally can be replaced by spherical masses.
  • #1
xbeachbabeee
5
0

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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  • #2
Do you know the equation for gravitational force?
 
  • #3
F = G(MaMb/d^2)
 
  • #4
Then what is the problem? It looks like just a plug in situation no?
 
  • #5
All you need to do is put the numbers in. Is there something specific that you're unsure of?
 
  • #6
yeah i was just a little confused as to what "Assume that both Tom and Sally can be replaced by spherical masses" means..
 

1. What is the gravitational attraction problem?

The gravitational attraction problem refers to the phenomenon of two objects being pulled towards each other due to their mass. This force is known as gravity and is described by Newton's law of universal gravitation.

2. How does gravity affect objects?

Gravity affects objects by pulling them towards each other with a force that is proportional to their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. This force keeps objects in orbit around each other and is responsible for the motion of celestial bodies in space.

3. What factors influence the strength of gravitational attraction?

The strength of gravitational attraction depends on the masses of the objects involved and the distance between them. The larger the masses of the objects, the stronger the gravitational force. The farther apart the objects are, the weaker the gravitational force.

4. Can the gravitational attraction between two objects be broken?

No, the gravitational attraction between two objects cannot be broken. This force is a fundamental property of mass and cannot be eliminated or turned off. However, the strength of the force can be weakened by increasing the distance between the objects or reducing their masses.

5. How is gravitational attraction related to the concept of gravity?

Gravitational attraction is directly related to the concept of gravity. Gravity is the force that causes objects to be attracted to each other, and gravitational attraction is the specific application of this force between two objects with mass. In other words, gravity is the broader concept, while gravitational attraction is a specific example of it.

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