Two spherical bodies of mass M and 5M and radii R and 2R are released in free space with initial separation between their centres equal to 12R. If they attract each other due to gravitational force only, then the distance covered by the smaller body before collision is :
- 7.5R
- 1.5R
- 2.5R
- 4.5R
Answer
(1) 7.5R
Solution
Only internal (gravitational) forces act, so the centre of mass stays at rest.
The bodies collide when the distance between centres = R + 2R = 3R.
Total distance covered by both = 12R - 3R = 9R
Mx1 = 5Mx2 and x1 + x2 = 9R
x1 = 56 9R = 7.5R
Answer: (1)