Question

A hollow sphere has mass M, radius R. Choosing center of sphere at origin of co-ordinates and any diameter as x–axis, the graph giving variation of (i) intensity (I) of gravitational field & (2) gravitational potential (V) with distance (x) from center of sphere is

Answer 1

Correct option is (1)

Gravitational field is zero at all points inside hollow sphere. For points on surface and outside, sphere behaves as if entire mass is concentrated at center O i.e. I ∝ 1/x²

The gravitational potential (V) is constant and equals potential on surface; for all points inside hollow sphere. For points outside V ∝ 1/x.