Calculating Net Gravitational Force on a Sphere from Multiple Particles

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the net gravitational force acting on a 20.0 kg sphere located at the origin due to three other particles with specified masses and coordinates. The gravitational force formula used is Fgrav = (Gm*m)/r², where G is the gravitational constant (6.67E-11 Nm²/kg²). Participants detail their calculations for the forces exerted by each particle, including direction and magnitude, but express confusion over the final results, indicating potential errors in their calculations or assumptions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation
  • Familiarity with vector decomposition (cosine and sine functions)
  • Knowledge of coordinate systems and distance calculations
  • Proficiency in basic algebra and square root operations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review gravitational force calculations using the formula Fgrav = (Gm*m)/r²
  • Study vector addition techniques for combining forces in two dimensions
  • Learn about the gravitational constant and its significance in calculations
  • Explore common errors in physics problem-solving and how to avoid them
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in gravitational force calculations and vector analysis in mechanics.

Dotty21690
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Homework Statement



The masses and coordinates of three particles are as follows: 20.0 kg, (0.50, 1.00) m; 432.0 kg, (-1.00, -1.00) m; 71.0 kg, (0.00, -0.50) m. What is the gravitational force on a 20.0 kg sphere located at the origin due to the other spheres, magnitude and direction? Give the direction as an angle in degrees counter clockwise with respect to the the + x-axis.

Homework Equations



Fgrav=(Gm*m)/r2

The Attempt at a Solution


I did this equation from the 20 kg sphere to all the other ones, and did that force times cos and sin. but I am not getting the right answer.
 
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Show your calculations.
 
for the 20 kg to the 71 kg: F = (6.67E-11Nm^2/kg^2*20kg*71kg)/(.5m^2)=.000000379 (and this should be negative since its in the negative y direction and there is no x force)

for the 20kg to the 432 kg: F =(6.67E-11Nm^2/kg^2*20kg*432kg)/(sqrt(2)m^2)=.000000288
(negative because below x-axis) fx= .000000288cos(45)=.000000204=Fy

for the 20kg to the 20 kg: F =(6.67E-11Nm^2/kg^2*20kg*20kg)/(sqrt(1.25)m^2)=.000000019
Fx= .000000021cos(63.43)=.000000009 and Fy=.000000021sin(63.43)=.000000019

then I added them together: Fx= .000000009+(-.000000204)=-.000000195
Fy= .000000019+(-.000000379)+(-000000204)=-.000000564

(-.000000195)^2 + (-.000000564)^2= 3.56121E-13
sqrt(3.56121E-13)=5.97E-7
 
I know I'm doing something wrong...but I don't know what it is.
 

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