Gravitational Constant and Movement due to Attraction

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around measuring the gravitational constant G by analyzing the deflection of cables supporting two spherical objects in a cathedral setting. The problem involves calculating the separation of the objects based on their mass, cable length, and initial distance apart.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster expresses confusion regarding the problem and seeks clarification on how to approach drawing a free-body diagram (FBD). Other participants inquire about the FBD and suggest steps to visualize the forces acting on the objects.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in the discussion, with some offering guidance on how to construct the FBD and identify forces. The original poster indicates a moment of clarity after reviewing the material, suggesting progress in understanding the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of provided diagrams or detailed information, which participants note as a challenge in addressing the problem. The original poster mentions finding a solution link but feels lost without further context.

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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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