Question
Three uniform spheres are located at the corners of an equilateral triangle. Each side of the triangle has a length of 2.40 m. Two of the spheres have a mass of 3.40 kg each. The third sphere (mass unknown) is released from rest. Considering only the gravitational forces that the spheres exert on each other, what is the magnitude of the initial acceleration of the third sphere?
I tried using the equation G*m1*m3/r^2 and am not getting the correct answer
I tried using the equation G*m1*m3/r^2 and am not getting the correct answer
Answers
Consider
m3 to be at (0,0)
m1 exerts its force at an angle of 30°
m2 exerts its force at an angle of -30°
As you say, each force is F=GMm/r^2
The resultant force will be at 0°, with a magnitude of F√3, the sum of the x-components of the two forces.
m3 to be at (0,0)
m1 exerts its force at an angle of 30°
m2 exerts its force at an angle of -30°
As you say, each force is F=GMm/r^2
The resultant force will be at 0°, with a magnitude of F√3, the sum of the x-components of the two forces.