Magnitude of the maximum gravitational force

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SUMMARY

The maximum gravitational force between a bowling ball (mass = 5.9 kg, radius = 0.11 m) and a billiard ball (mass = 0.36 kg, radius = 0.028 m) is calculated using Newton's law of universal gravitation. The formula F = -Gm1m2/r^2 yields a value of -7.43913043 × 10^-9 N, where G is the gravitational constant (6.67 × 10^-11 N m²/kg²). However, since the question asks for the magnitude, the correct answer is 7.43913043 × 10^-9 N, disregarding the negative sign.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's law of universal gravitation
  • Familiarity with gravitational constant (G = 6.67 × 10^-11 N m²/kg²)
  • Basic knowledge of mass and radius of uniform spheres
  • Ability to perform calculations involving scientific notation
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of Newton's law of universal gravitation
  • Explore applications of gravitational force in real-world scenarios
  • Learn about the significance of negative signs in physics equations
  • Investigate the effects of mass and distance on gravitational force
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on gravitational forces, as well as educators looking for examples of gravitational calculations.

onyxorca
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Homework Statement



A bowling ball (mass = 5.9 kg, radius = 0.11 m) and a billiard ball (mass = 0.36 kg, radius = 0.028 m) may each be treated as uniform spheres. What is the magnitude of the maximum gravitational force that each can exert on the other?

Homework Equations



F=-Gm1m2/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution



6.67*10^-11*5.9*.36/-(.11+.028)^2 = -7.43913043 × 10^-9 N

right?
 
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Right. altough I don't think the minus sign is right.
 
but that's the minus sign from the formula isn't it?
 
onyxorca said:
but that's the minus sign from the formula isn't it?

The formula is usually given without a minus sign. The question also asks for the magnitude of the force, which has to be positive.
 

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