Physics

Problem

Two point masses of

5\,\text{kg}

and

20\,\text{kg}

are held

3.0\,\text{m}

apart on a straight line. A

2.0\,\text{kg}

particle is placed exactly halfway between them. Calculate the magnitude and direction of the net gravitational force on the

2.0\,\text{kg}

particle. a)

20\,G\text{ N}

toward the

20\,\text{kg}

mass b)

0\text{ N}

, because the forces cancel exactly c)

\dfrac{40}{3}\,G\text{ N}

toward the

20\,\text{kg}

mass d)

\dfrac{40}{3}\,G\text{ N}

toward the

5\,\text{kg}

mass