System A has masses m and m separated by a distance r; system B has masses m and 2m separated by a distance 2r; system C has masses 2m and 3m separated by a distance 2r; and system D has masses 4m and 5m separated by a distance 3r. Rank these systems in order of increasing gravitational force. Indicate ties where appropriate.
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Textbook Solutions for Physics
Question
Adumbbell has a mass m on either end of a rod of length 2a. The center of the dumbbell is a distance r from the center of the Earth, and the dumbbell is aligned radially. If , show that the difference in the gravitational force exerted on the two masses by the Earth is approximately . (Note: The difference in force causes a tension in the rod connecting the masses. We refer to this as a tidal force.) [Hint: Use the fact that ~ for .]
Solution
The first step in solving 12 problem number 63 trying to solve the problem we have to refer to the textbook question: Adumbbell has a mass m on either end of a rod of length 2a. The center of the dumbbell is a distance r from the center of the Earth, and the dumbbell is aligned radially. If , show that the difference in the gravitational force exerted on the two masses by the Earth is approximately . (Note: The difference in force causes a tension in the rod connecting the masses. We refer to this as a tidal force.) [Hint: Use the fact that ~ for .]
From the textbook chapter Gravity you will find a few key concepts needed to solve this.
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