Question

In deep space, sphere A of mass MA is located at the origin of an x axis and sphere B of mass MB is located on the axis at a point x1. Sphere B is released from rest while sphere A is held at the origin. (a) What is the gravitational potential energy of the two-sphere system just as B is released

Answer 1

Answer:

The gravitational potential energy of the two-sphere system just as B is released is

U = -[(G)(MA)(MB)/x₁]

where G = Gravitational constant

G = (6.7 × 10⁻¹¹) Nm²/kg²

Explanation:

The gravitational potential energy of two masses (m and M), separated by a distance, d, is given as

U = -(GMm/d)

For our question,

Mass of object 1 = MA

Mass of object 2 = MB

Distance between them = x₁

U = -[(G)(MA)(MB)/x₁]

where G = Gravitational constant

G = (6.7 × 10⁻¹¹) Nm²/kg²

Hope this Helps!!!