Newton's law of gravity problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the gravitational attraction between a tool and a space station, specifically how much closer the tool will drift towards the station over a period of time. The subject area pertains to gravitational physics and dynamics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply Newton's law of gravitation to find the gravitational force and subsequent acceleration of the tool. Some participants question the calculations, particularly regarding the handling of mass in the equations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants providing feedback on the original poster's approach. There are indications of potential errors in the calculations, specifically related to the mass of the tool being used multiple times. However, no consensus has been reached on the correct method yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the depth of discussion and the types of guidance offered.

J.live
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Homework Statement


After a spacewalk, a 7-kg tool is left 54 m from the center of gravity of a 21-metric ton space station, orbiting along with it. How much closer to the space station will the tool drift in two hours due to the gravitational attraction of the space station?

Homework Equations



Gravitational Constant : 6.674 X 10^-11 -->G

The Attempt at a Solution



1 - Finding gravitational force =G x 7 x 21,000 / 54^2 = Mt ( tool mass ) a

2 - Finding acceleration = (G x 7 x 21 , 000 / 54 ^2) x Mt = a

3 - Finding distance = Vf = Vi(0) + at ----> Vf = at

Final answer----> Vf^2 = Vi(0) + 2a ( d) ----> Vf^2 / 2a = d

This is just the procedure to solving the answer. I'll appreciate it, If someone can kindly point out my mistakes by showing work in response.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Anyone ?
 
It looks good?
 
No. You multiplied twice with the mass of the tool. ehild
 
ehilds right you multiplied twice, fix that and your answer is correct.
 

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