College Physics (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32160-183-1
ISBN 13: 978-0-32160-183-4

Chapter 7 - Circular Motion and Gravitation - Learning Path Questions and Exercises - Conceptual Questions - Page 260: 17

Answer

$F=G\frac{mM}{r^{2}}$ m=mass of moon, M- mass of earth. So, if m is doubled, Force is also doubled. This force is balanced by the centrifugal force. So, unless the moon does not change its orbit radius or its velocity the moon will hit the earth.

Work Step by Step

$F=G\frac{mM}{r^{2}}$ m=mass of moon, M- mass of earth. So, if m is doubled, Force is also doubled. This force is balanced by the centrifugal force. So, unless the moon does not change its orbit radius or its velocity the moon will hit the earth.
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