Question

The force of attraction between two unit point masses separated by a unit distance is called:

• A. Gravitational potential
• B. Acceleration due to gravity
• C. gravitational field
• D. Universal gravitational constant

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Universal gravitational constant

The explanation for the correct option:

D: Universal gravitational constant

1. We know that, gravitational force $F=G\frac{M_1{M}_2}{r^2},$. where G= universal gravitational constant.
2. If $M_1=M_2=1kgandr=1m$ then, $F=G$.
3. Therefore, the force of attraction between two unit point masses separated by a unit distance is called a universal gravitational constant.
4. The value of $G=6.67\times {10}^{-11}N{m}^2/k{g}^2$.
5. It is a constant quantity does not change on changing location.

The explanation for the incorrect option:

A: Gravitational potential

1. The amount of work done required to move a test mass from infinity to a point in a gravitational field is called gravitational potential.
2. It is denoted by “V”.
3. $V=\frac{W}{m}$, where W= work done and m= mass.

B: Acceleration due to gravity

1. When an object falls freely towards the surface of the earth from a certain height, then its velocity changes.
2. This change in velocity produces acceleration in the object, known as acceleration due to gravity denoted by the letter g.
3. The value of acceleration due to gravity is $g=9.8m/s^2$.

C: Gravitational field

1. The field of force surrounding a body of finite mass in which another body would experience an attractive force is called gravitational force.

Hence, option (D) is the correct option.