Magnitude of the maximum gravitational force

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the magnitude of the gravitational force between a bowling ball and a billiard ball, both treated as uniform spheres. The problem involves applying the gravitational force formula and interpreting the results correctly.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the gravitational force formula and calculates a value, while others question the interpretation of the negative sign in the formula and its relevance to the magnitude of the force.

Discussion Status

Participants are engaged in clarifying the correct interpretation of the formula and the significance of the negative sign, with some suggesting that the magnitude should be expressed as a positive value. There is an ongoing exploration of the formula's application.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on the distinction between the calculated force and its magnitude, as well as the conventions used in presenting gravitational force equations.

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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