Two stars of equal mass M are separated by distance 2d — JEE Physics
Two stars of equal mass $M$ are separated by distance $2d$. A small body of mass $m$ is placed at the midpoint. Find the gravitational potential energy of the system.
1 Answer
VAVidaara Admin
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· 1mo ago
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$$U = -\frac{GM^2}{2d} + 2\left(-\frac{GMm}{d}\right)$$
$$U = -\frac{GM^2}{2d} - \frac{2GMm}{d}$$
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Discussion (4)
RJ
For revision — the key formula used here comes up almost every year.
C
How do we know the approximation is valid here?
VN
Why do we take the positive value only in the last step?
VA
Great discussion here. If you want more practice on this concept, check the related questions in this category.