Gravitational Constant and Movement due to Attraction

AI Thread Summary
A student is attempting to measure the gravitational constant G by suspending two 100.0-kg spherical objects from a ceiling and measuring cable deflection. The discussion focuses on creating a free-body diagram (FBD) for one of the objects, illustrating the forces acting on it, including gravitational force and tension. Participants emphasize the importance of accurately depicting the forces and angles in the FBD to solve the problem. Guidance is provided on how to draw the diagram and set up equations for the forces involved. The student expresses gratitude for the assistance and acknowledges a clearer understanding of the problem.
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Homework Statement


A student proposes to measure the gravitational constant G by suspending two
spherical objects from the ceiling of a tall cathedral and measuring the deflection of the cables
from the vertical. Draw a free-body diagram of one of the objects. If two 100.0-kg objects are
suspended at the lower ends of cables 45.00 m long, and the cables are attached to the ceiling
1.000 m apart, what is the separation of the objects?


Homework Equations


http://tycho.physics.wisc.edu/courses/phys201/fall06/Discussion/Disc18Solution.pdf


The Attempt at a Solution


Honestly had no idea. The solution and equations are on the website above; I tried to figure it out based on that, but I was lost immediately and did not know what to do. Any help explaining it would be much appreciated.
 
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Can we see the free body diagram?
 
We weren't given one :/
All that was given to us was the question, above. I found the website myself which is supposedly the solution. And I wouldn't even know where to begin with the FBD.
 
Okay, need help with the free body diagram.
Draw a picture of the hanging mass. And the other one hanging beside it.
On one of them, draw an arrow downward and write F = mg on it.
Draw an arrow sideways to show the gravitational force of the other mass on it. Do you have the formula for the force of one mass on another?

Oh, have to draw the diagram again because the sideways force will pull the mass slightly toward the other one, so the mass hangs at an angle, not straight down. Also need an arrow along the angled string to indicate the force of the string. Mark the angle θ.

Show us your FBD and someone will help you with the next step, which is to write that the sum of the horizontal forces is zero and
the sum of the vertical forces is zero.
 
We went over this in class, sorry I couldn't respond quicker, but I understand it now! I was overthinking it wayyy too much!
Thank you for offering your help, though!
 
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