Question

If $F_1$ is the magnitude of the force exerted on the Sun by Earth and $F_2$ is the magnitude of the force exerted on Earth by the Sun, then :

• A. $F_1>F_2$
• B. $F_1=F_2$
• C. $F_1<F_2$
• D. $F_1$ and $F_2$ cannot be compared

Answer 1

The correct option is B

$F_1=F_2$

Newton's third law of motion states that: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. So, $F_1=F_2$. Both forces will remain the same as the value of $G$(Universal gravitational constant), the mass of the earth ($m_1$), the mass of the sun ($m_2$) and the distance between the two bodies$\left(r\right)$ do not change for both cases. However, the acceleration of the bodies will be inversely proportional to their masses.