The gravitational attraction A between two masses varies inversely as the square of the distance between them. If the force of attraction is 9 lb when the masses are 2 ft apart, what is the attraction
When the masses are 6 ft apart?
A)4 lb
B)3 lb
C)2 lb
D)1 lb

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The gravitational attraction between two masses is given by the formula $A = \frac{k}{r^2}$, where $A$ is the attraction force, $k$ is a constant, and $r$ is the distance between the masses. Given that the force of attraction is 9 lb when the distance is 2 ft, we can find $k$ by rearranging the formula to $k = A \cdot r^2 = 9 \cdot 2^2 = 36$. When the distance is 6 ft, the attraction force is $A = \frac{36}{6^2} = \frac{36}{36} = 1$ lb.

The Gravitational Attraction a Between Two Masses Varies Inversely as the Square