Gravitational Force: Tripling Distance - Factor 3 or 6?

AI Thread Summary
When the distance between two objects is tripled, the gravitational force decreases by a factor of 9. This conclusion is based on Newton's law of gravitation, which states that gravitational force varies inversely with the square of the distance. Therefore, if the distance is increased by a factor of 3, the force is reduced by 3 squared, resulting in a decrease by a factor of 9. The correct answer to the homework question is E, decrease by a factor of 9. Understanding this relationship is crucial for solving problems related to gravitational force.
chuffman
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Homework Statement


If you triple the distance between two objects the gravitational force will...
A. Increase by the factor of 3
B. decrease by a factor of 3
C. Decrease by a factor of 6
D. Increase by a factor of 9
E. decrease by a factor of 9


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Obviously it decreases but I'm just not sure I know what information I'm supposed to use to come to the right factor.
 
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Newton's law of gravitation states that the force varies "inversely as the square of the distance".
 

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