Solve Net Gravitational Force Problem: Earth-Moon Distance

In summary, the conversation is about finding the distance from Earth at which the net gravitational force on a spaceship is zero. The first method mentioned involves using the Universal law of gravitation, but is unable to find the distance without knowing the mass of the spaceship. The second method, suggested by Daniel, involves setting two equations equal to each other and solving for the distance. Dex confirms that this is the correct approach and asks for calculations to figure out any errors. The conversation ends with thanks and a plan to try the method again.
  • #1
CinderBlockFist
86
0
Hey all, I am stuck on this problem.

A spaceship is ona straight line path between Earth and its mon. At what distance from Earth is the net gravitational force on the spaceship zero?



Well, when I try to use the Universal law of gravitation. F=G(m1)(m2)/r^2, I could find the distance if only I knew the mass of the spaceship, but it is not given. So, I tried to set 2 equations equal, one using the moon, and one using the earth, since the forces would cancel on the spaceship, making it 0. But when i do the computations, I get a negative under a root symbol. Is this the correct approach? Am i missing something here? THanks in advance.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Your second method is the correct one.Please post your calculations,as to figure out what u're doing wrong...


Daniel.
 
  • #3
Ok, thanks dex, it's kind of lengthy, so since i know this is the correct approach, I'll try to do it more carefully and see what I get, thanks for the quick response.
 

FAQ: Solve Net Gravitational Force Problem: Earth-Moon Distance

What is the formula for calculating the net gravitational force?

The formula for calculating the net gravitational force is F = (G*m1*m2)/r^2, where G is the gravitational constant, m1 and m2 are the masses of the two objects, and r is the distance between them.

How do you determine the distance between the Earth and Moon?

The distance between the Earth and Moon can be determined using various methods such as radar ranging, laser ranging, or parallax measurements. These methods involve measuring the time it takes for a signal to travel between the two objects and using mathematical calculations to determine the distance.

What is the value of the gravitational constant (G)?

The gravitational constant (G) is a fundamental physical constant that represents the strength of the gravitational force. Its value is approximately 6.67 x 10^-11 m^3/kg*s^2.

How does the distance between the Earth and Moon affect the net gravitational force?

The net gravitational force between the Earth and Moon is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. This means that as the distance increases, the force decreases, and vice versa.

What factors can affect the accuracy of the calculated net gravitational force?

The accuracy of the calculated net gravitational force can be affected by various factors such as measurement errors, variations in the mass of the objects, and external forces such as the gravitational pull of other celestial bodies. Additionally, the assumption of a point mass for the objects may also affect the accuracy of the calculation.

Similar threads

What is the mass of the Galaxy's core?
Replies
10
Views
962
Finding the net gravitational force on a rocket....
Replies
5
Views
2K
Calculating Tidal Range (Gravitation)
Replies
12
Views
2K
Where between the Moon and the Earth is the gravitational potential=0 ?
Replies
21
Views
2K
Universal Gravitation problem, help with final statement.
Replies
18
Views
2K
Finding distance between Earth and Moon in gravitational fields
Replies
5
Views
2K
Calculating Work for Launching a Spacecraft to a Great Distance from Earth
Replies
3
Views
1K
Calculating the Distance of a Zero Gravitational Field Between Earth and Moon
Replies
2
Views
1K
Why does the gravitational force decrease below the Earth's surface?
Replies
10
Views
3K
Ratio of the Magnitude of gravitational force?
Replies
5
Views
5K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top