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

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The gravitational attraction between two masses is given by the formula $A = \frac{k}{d^2}$, where $A$ is the attraction, $k$ is a constant, and $d$ is the distance between the masses. Given that the attraction is 4 lb when the distance is 3 ft, we can find $k$ by rearranging the formula to $k = A \cdot d^2 = 4 \cdot 3^2 = 36$. When the distance is doubled to 6 ft, the attraction becomes $A = \frac{36}{6^2} = \frac{36}{36} = 1$ lb.

Solve the Problem. -The Gravitational Attraction a Between Two Masses Varies Inversely as Varies