Classical Dynamics of Particles and Systems · Problem 8-5

Dynamics of a System of Particles — Marion & Thornton

Physics — Mechanics · central-force-gravitational-collision-time

Problem

Two particles moving under the influence of their mutual gravitational force describe circular orbits about one another with a period τ\tau. If they are suddenly stopped in their orbits and allowed to gravitate toward each other, show that they will collide after a time τ/42\tau/4\sqrt{2}.

Related theory

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