Two spherical bodies of mass M and $$5$$ M and radii R and $$2$$ R are released in free space with initial separation between their centres equal to $$12$$ R. If they attract each other due to gravitational force only, then the distance covered by the smaller body before collision is

Question

Infinity Learn · Accepted Answer

Position of center of mass of the system from m $$x1=5mx12R6m=10Rwhen$$ they meet they touch each other and separation between them becomes $$3R$$ and center of mass from m $$x2=5mx3R6m=2.5Ras$$ center of mass is stationary due to absence of any external force so m  moves by a distance  of  $$x1-x2=7.5R$$

Two spherical bodies of mass M and 5 M and radii R and 2 R are released in free space with initial separation between their centres equal to 12 R. If they attract each other due to gravitational force only, then the distance covered by the smaller body before collision is

Unlock the full solution & master the concept.

Ready to Test Your Skills?

free study material