How Do Gravitational Forces Vary with Distance on a Neutron Star?

In summary, The conversation is about finding the ratio of gravitational force between two point masses above a neutron star using Newton's law of gravity. The person is asking for help with this problem and suggests writing down an expression for the force on each particle.
  • #1
ps2983
2
0
I am terrible at finding ratios, so I was wodering if someone can help me with this problem.

Consider two point masses, each having mass m, that are separated vertically by a distance of 1cm just above the surface of a neutron star of radius R and mass M. Using Newton's law of gravity, find an expression for the ratio of the gravitational force on the lower mass to that on the upper mass.

Any help will be greatly appriciated.
 
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  • #2
Well, clearly the first thing you ought to do is right down an expression for the force on each particle, right?
 

FAQ: How Do Gravitational Forces Vary with Distance on a Neutron Star?

What is the ratio of gravitational forces between two objects?

The ratio of gravitational forces between two objects is determined by the masses of the objects and the distance between them. This ratio is known as the gravitational constant, which is approximately equal to 6.674 x 10^-11 Nm^2/kg^2.

How does distance affect the ratio of gravitational forces?

The ratio of gravitational forces between two objects is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. This means that as the distance between two objects increases, the ratio of gravitational forces decreases.

Why is the ratio of gravitational forces important in celestial mechanics?

The ratio of gravitational forces plays a crucial role in celestial mechanics because it determines the orbital motion of celestial bodies. The ratio of gravitational forces between two objects determines the strength of their gravitational attraction and ultimately determines their orbits.

How does the mass of an object affect the ratio of gravitational forces?

The ratio of gravitational forces between two objects is directly proportional to the product of their masses. This means that as the mass of an object increases, the ratio of gravitational forces also increases.

Can the ratio of gravitational forces be negative?

No, the ratio of gravitational forces cannot be negative. Gravitational forces are always attractive and never repulsive, so the ratio of gravitational forces will always be a positive value.

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