SAT II Physics : Gravitational Force and Weight

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for SAT II Physics

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Example Questions

Example Question #2 : Forces

If the distance between two objects is reduced by two-thirds, how will the gravitational force between the objects be affected?

Possible Answers:

Increases by a factor of

Decreases by a factor of

Decreases by a factor of

Increases by a factor of

Increases by a factor of

Correct answer:

Increases by a factor of

Explanation:

According to Newton's law of universal gravitation, the gravitational force between two objects is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

If the distance is reduced by two-thirds, then the final distance is equal to one-third the original distance.

Using this term in the equation will show that the force increases by a factor of nine.

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