Gravitational Force Homework: 3 Spheres, Masses, Distance

AI Thread Summary
To determine the gravitational force on sphere C due to spheres A and B, the distances between spheres must be calculated accurately. The Pythagorean theorem is the appropriate method for finding these distances, and the calculated values of 0.186 m for distance AC and 0.178 m for distance BC are confirmed as correct. Once the distances are established, the gravitational forces can be computed using the relevant equations. Ensuring accurate distance values is crucial for solving the problem correctly. The discussion emphasizes the importance of verifying calculations before proceeding with the physics involved.
wbetting
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Homework Statement



Sphere A with mass 70 kg is located at the origin of an xy coordinate system; sphere B with mass 69 kg is located at coordinates (0.29 m, 0); sphere C with mass 0.40 kg is located at coordinates (0.15 m, 0.11 m). In unit-vector notation, what is the gravitational force on C due to A and B?



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I just have a quick question. How do you find distance between ac and bc. I know its simple i just don't want to do the whole problem with wrong Rac and Rbc values. I graphed it and did Pythagorean theorem to find hypotenuse? Is this correct i got distance between ac to be .186 and bc to be .178. I got the physics down its the algebra that i need to check!
 
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hi wbetting! :smile:
wbetting said:
How do you find distance between ac and bc. … I graphed it and did Pythagorean theorem to find hypotenuse? Is this correct i got distance between ac to be .186 and bc to be .178.

(either say "the distance between a and c" or "the distance ac" :wink:)

yes, pythagoras is the correct method (and your answers are correct) :smile:
 

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