Gravitational forces and multiple bodies problem

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the net gravitational force on a mass located at (0, 0) due to three other spherical masses positioned at the corners of a square. The gravitational force formula Fg=GMm/r^2 is applied, and the distance from (0, 0) to (1.5, 1.5) is determined to be approximately 2.1213 meters, with an angle of 45 degrees. The participant expresses confusion about how to combine the vector forces correctly, particularly in terms of providing a single answer in polar notation, which requires both magnitude and angle. Clarification is sought on whether the answer should include separate x and y components, highlighting a misunderstanding of the polar notation requirement. The discussion emphasizes the importance of correctly applying vector addition and understanding the format for expressing the final answer.
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Homework Statement


Four 335 kg spherical masses are placed on the corners of a square at coordinates (0, 0), (0, 1.50), (1.50, 0) and (1.50, 1.50) where all coordinates are in meters. What is the net gravitational force on the mass at (0, 0) due to the other three masses? Express your answer in polar notation with the angle in degrees.


Homework Equations



Fg=GMm/r^2
A^2+B^2=C^2

The Attempt at a Solution


I worked to find the distance from (0,0) to (1.5,1.5) and it was 2.1213 (using trig), I got that the angle is 45 degrees. But for some reason I am having trouble adding up the vectors to get the correct net force. I understand that we learned the tail-tip concept. The answer space is also only giving me one blank to fill in for the net force, this doesn't make sense to me, because if i am supposed to put the answer in polar notation i should give the vector an x and a y component, right? Any help with this will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
With polar notation you specify a magnitude and an angle.
 
Oh yea, you are right! Thanks a bunch! I need to sleep more.
 
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