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 2.25 lb when the masses are 4 ft apart, what is the attraction when the masses are 6 ft
Apart?
A) 1 lb
B) 2 lb
C) 4 lb
D) 3 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 2.25 lb when the distance is 4 ft, we can find $k$ by rearranging the formula to $k = A \cdot d^2$, thus $k = 2.25 \cdot 4^2 = 2.25 \cdot 16 = 36$. To find the attraction when the distance is 6 ft, we use the formula again with $d = 6$: $A = \frac{36}{6^2} = \frac{36}{36} = 1$ lb.

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