Question

Two satellites of equal mass are orbiting the planet Mars. Satellite B is closer to Mars than Satellite A.

How does the gravitational pull of Mars affect each of these satellites?

Answer 1

A.
The gravitational pull from Mars is equally strong on both Satellite A and Satellite B because distance does not affect the gravity of Mars.

B.
The gravitational pull from Mars on Satellite B is greater than its pull on Satellite A because Satellite B is closer.

C.
The gravitational pull from Mars on Satellite B is less that its pull on Satellite A because Satellite B is closer.

D.
The gravity of Mars repels Satellite A with less force than Satellite B, which explains s why Satellite A is closer.

Answer 2

Do you know the formula for gravitational force?

Answer 3

http://www.physicsclassroom.com/Class/circles/u6l3c.cfm

Answer 4

The one under Universal Law of Gravitation.

Answer 5

So, when the masses are the same, what changes when the mass is closer?

Answer 6

They double the same amount every time?

Answer 7

Hm, why do you think it would double?

Answer 8

okay i think it is B-The gravitational pull from Mars on Satellite B is greater than its pull on Satellite A because Satellite B is closer.

Answer 9

Yep, great! :-)

Answer 10

Thank you!