Question

The gravitational force between the two object is F. If masses of both object is halved without changing distance between them, then the gravitational force will become.
1. F/4
2. F/2
3. F
4. 2F

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 1 : F/4

CONCEPT:

• Gravitational force: It states that the force of attraction between any two bodies is directly proportional to the product of their masses and is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.
  • ​It can also be defined as the universal force of attraction, which is acting between objects, is known as the gravitational force.

​Formula:

F = Gm₁m₂/r²

where F = gravitational force between two bodies, m1 = mass of the first body, m2 = mass of the second body, r = distance between the centers of two bodies.

EXPLANATION:

Given that, m₁ = m₁/2, m₂ = m₂/2, keeping d = constant.

As F α m₁m₂/r²

Then the new Force is 

F_new = G (m₁/2) × (m₂/2)/r²  = F/4

The correct option is F/4.