Time it take for small objects to come together under gravity

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The discussion centers on the time it takes for small objects to come together under gravity, highlighting the complexities of calculating gravitational attraction with non-constant acceleration. The original poster expresses interest in how mass attracts mass and seeks help with the relevant calculations, specifically using the gravitational formula G*M/r^2. Participants suggest that integrating the acceleration function is necessary due to the changing acceleration, while also recommending starting with constant acceleration for simpler calculations. Resources for further understanding of variable acceleration are shared, emphasizing the need for a solid grasp of calculus to tackle the problem effectively. The conversation underscores the challenges of applying basic physics principles to dynamic scenarios.
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Hey everyone!

I've done http://www.fourmilab.ch/gravitation/foobar/" and i find it interesting how objects of any mass just randomly attract each other. Anyway, i always wanted to find out how long it should take for a mass in this experiment to gravitate towards the other. The problem is it isn't like doing it on Earth where at the surface everything accelerates at 9.8m/s. The only relevant equation for acceleration in this case would be
G*M/r^2
G=6.67*10^-8cm³/g-sec²
m=mass in grams
r=distance in cm
I just learned a LITTLE calculus but so far i can only calculate how long it will take for an dropped object to hit the ground. I was hoping i could use this but since the acceleration is always changing i don't know how to do this out. Can someone help??

Thanks:smile:
 
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Hi hover,

I've done this experiment and i find it interesting how objects of any mass just randomly attract each other.
Really? Where you expecting them to repel each other :biggrin:

So you want to complicate things more with non constant acceleration I see. I don't know the extent of your calculus knowledge, but this involves integrating the acceleration function.

http://www.sunybroome.edu/~biegen_j/phys1/modules/varacc/Mod4_3.htm
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/avari.html

I recommend for situations like this, you should use constant acceleration and find the time like you would normally.
 
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