Question

Two particles of mass $m_1$ and $M_2$, approach each other due to their mutual gravitational attraction only. Then

• A. Accelerations of both the particles are equal
• B. Accelerations of the particles of mass $m_1$ is proportional to $m_1$
• C. Accelerations of the particles of mass $m_1$ is proportional to $m_2$
• D. Accelerations of the particles of mass $m_1$ is inversely proportional to $m_1$

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Accelerations of the particles of mass $m_1$ is proportional to $m_2$

The force acting on each particle due to gravitation=$F=\frac{G{m}_1{m}_2}{r^2}$

Acceleration of mass $m_1=\frac{F}{m_1}=\frac{G{m}_2}{r^2}$

Acceleration of mass $m_2=\frac{F}{m_2}=\frac{G{m}_1}{r^2}$

Hence correct answer is option C.