Gravitational Force Between Finite Bodies – Rankers Physics

Newton's Law of Gravitation: Practice Problem & Solution

Assertion (A): The gravitational force between two finite bodies is necessarily along the line joining their centre of mass. Reason (R): The gravitational force between two particles is not central.  
Both (A) & (R) are true and the (R) is the correct explanation of the (A)
Both (A) & (R) are true but the (R) is not the correct explanation of the (A)
(A) is true but (R) is false
Both (A) and (R) are false

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Newton's Law of Gravitation. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Assertion (A) is false.

The gravitational force between two finite bodies is generally not directed along the line joining their centers of mass.

Reason (R) is also false. The gravitational force between two point particles is always central, acting along the line connecting them. Therefore, both (A) and (R) are false.

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