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INDEX
Chapter - 08 - Gravitation

1. Introduction ... 005

2. Kepler’s Laws ... 005
3. Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation ... 006
4. Universal Constant of Gavitation ... 019
5. Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It ... 020
6. Gravitational Intensity ... 041
7. Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy
in the Earth’s Gravitational Field ... 042
8. Escape Energy and Escape Speed ... 056
9. Satellites ... 072
10. Weightlessness ... 074
11. Miscellaneous Problems ... 090
12. Physical Quantities ... 100
13. DEPENDENCY ... 101
14. NUMERICAL INFORMATION ... 102
15. GRAPHS ... 103
16. Gravitational Potential for Different Bodies ... 104

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Kepler’s Laws 5

STANDARD-11 CH - 8 : GRAVITATION
THEORY
1 Introduction life-time. These observations were studied
by Johannes Kepler (1571-1640) who gave
 The stars in the sky and the planets
three laws of planetary motion. They are
revolving around the sun have been
known as Kepler’s laws. In this chapter
attracting the attention of the scientists since
we will study these laws, Newton’s Law of
ancient time.
Gravitation and the satellites.
 First scientific study of the solar system
2 Kepler’s Laws :
was carried out by the Greeks. The principle
 From the study of the observations
of Greek astronomy proposed by Ptolemy,
recorded by Tycho Brathe, Johannes
nearly 2000 years ago, is known as
Kelper gave three laws of planetary motion.
geo-centric theory.
They are called Kepler’s laws. They are as
 According to this theory the Earth is
follows :
stationary at the centre of the universe and
 First Law (Law of Orbits) :
all celestial bodies - stars, sun, planets all
 “All the planets move in the elliptical
of them-are revolving around the earth.
orbits with the sun situated at on of the
 Ptolemy proposed their motions to be
foci.”
circular. According to him the planets move
on circular paths and the centres of those
 Only for information :
circles move on larger circles.
An ellipse can be drawn as under :
 But Aryabhatt in the fifth century, proposed Keep the ends of a string of length l fixed at
a theory that all palnets revolve on the points F1 and F2, Where F1F2 < l. Now, keep
circles with the sun at the centre. the tip of a pencil with the string and move it
 Then, almost one thousand years later such that the string remains tight. The curve
PNAM obtained in this way is an ellipse as in
Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543) of
figure.
Poland proposed a definitive model about
the planets revolving on perfect circles with
the sun at the center. This is known as
helio-centric theory.
 Thus it was support to the theory of
Aryabhatt. Copernicus model was not
accepted by the recognised institutions of
OP = a = OA
that time. But Galileo supported his theory.
OM = b = ON
 Tyco Brahe (1546-1601) of Denmark had Here, F1X + F2X = constant. It shows the
accumulated many observations, about charesteristic of an ellipse.
planetary motion by direct eye, during his Moreover, if a = b, the elipse becomes a circle.]

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 6 Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation

 We can call the area swept in unit time as

areal velocity (= area/time) and this law
indicates that the areal velocity is constant.
You have already seen this aspect in
Chapter-10.
 Third Law (Law of Periods) :
If r1 and r2 are the shortest and the longest distances of
planet from the sun respectively then (2/r) = (1/r1) + (1/r2).  “The square of the time-period (T) of
where, r is the distance between planet and sun, when the the revolution of a planet is proportinal
planet is perpendicular to the major axis. [Solved problem-1]
to the cube of the semi-major axis (a)
 PA = 2a, MN = 2b of its elliptical orbit.” That is, T2  a3.
OP = OA = a = semi-major axis From T  a3/2,
 In above figure the ellipse PNAM showing If a' = 4 a, then
the path of a planet has two foci S and S’. T' = 8T.
 This law of orbit suggests different shapes  The time-period (T) means the time
from the circular orbits suggested by required to complet one revolution.( )
Copernicus.
3 Newton’s Universal Law of
 Second Law (Law of Areas) : Gravitation :
 “The line joining the Sun and the
 Newton’s universal law of gravitation is
planet sweeps equal areas in equal
as follows :
intervals of time.” (see following figure)
Area covered per unit time = Arial velocity = ( dA / dt ) “Every body in the universe attracts
= ( L / 2m ) = constant.
( from the conservation of angular momentum ) This low is
every other body with a force which is
the geometrical

representation of conservation of angular
 
directly proportional to the product of
momentum. L = r  p
their masses and inversely proportional
to the square of the distance between
them.”
 The direction of this force is along the line
joining them.
 This force is called the gravitational force.
 According to this law, the magnitude of
 When the planet is away from the sun, it
goes from P1 to P2 in certain time-interval the force on the particle 1 of mass m1,
t and when it is near the sun it goes from by the other particle 2 of mass m2, lying at
P3 to P4 the same time-interval. distance r from it. By changing medium
Hence, according to this law, gravitational force
G m1 m2 remains as it is.
area of SP1P2 = area of SP3P4 .  is F12 =
r2 (1)
 This law has been obtained from the
observation that a planet moves slower in  The direction of this force is from particle

the orbit when it is far away from the sun 1 to the particle 2 (in the direction of r12 ),
and it moves faster when it is near to the sun. see following figure.
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Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation 7
 Here, G is a constant and it is called the  Since the gravitational foces are mutually
universal constant of gravitation, because interactive forces, the force exerted on

its value is the same at all places at all times particle 1 by particle 2, (F12) is the same
in the whole of the universe. and in opposite direction to the force

 The value of G was first determined by exerted on particle 2 by particle 1, (F21).
Cavendish experimentally. Thereafter many
scientists also have determined its value 
F 21 _Gm m 
more precisely. = 1 2
r12
force on
 At present the accepted value of r 2

_11 2 by 1
G is 6.67  10 N m2 / kg2. G m1 m2 
= r21 (4)
 The dimensional formula for G is r2
_ _
M 1 L3 T 2.  
 Both these forces F12 and F21 are shown in
 In order to write the equation (1) in the
following figure.
vector form consider following figure.

Z
m2
2

 r12
r2
1 m1

r1
O Y

X Mutually interactive force

   Force due to an extended object :

 From the figure,
 _   An extended object can be considered as
r12 = r2 r1
a collection of point masses. (i.e. particles)
  _
 r12 r2 r1 The force due to such an extended object
r12 =  =  on a point mass is equal to vector sum
r12  r12 
of the forces exerted on it by all the poit
 _
 r r1 masses in the extended object. Thus the
r 12 = 2 (2)
r force on particle 1 by an extentended
object is,
   
 F1 = F12 + F13 + F14 + ..... (1)
 Here, r = | r12 |
 It is clear from the figure, that
 Gm 1 m 2  Gm 1m 3  Gm 1m 4  Gm 1m n

F 12 G m1 m2  = r12 + r13 + r14+ ... + r1n
r 12
2 r 13
2
r 14
2
r 1n
2

force on = r12 (3)

r2 (2)
1 by 2

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 8 Kepler’s Laws  Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation
 In the same way we can find the total force Solved Problems
on an extended object by another
extended object by the vector sum of the (1) The largest and the shortest distance
forces on every point mass of one object of the earth from the sun are r1 and r2.
by every mass of the other object. This Its distance from the sun when it is
can be done easily with the help of calculus. perpendicular to the major axis of the
3.4 Special Cases : orbit drawn from the sun .......
(1) The gravitational force by a hollow
[NEET : 1988]
spherical shell of uniform density on a
particle outside and on the surface of the r + r2 r +r
(A) 1 (B) r1  r2
shell is equal to the force wich can be 4 1 2

obtained by considering the entire mass of 2r r r + r2

(C) 1 2 (D) 1
shell as concentrated on its center. ( ) r 1
+ r 2 3
It is also true for solid sphere. Solution : [ Ans. : C ]
(2) The force on a particle at any point inside  From Kepler’s first law,
a hollow spherical shell of uniform density
is zero.( )
Planet
Qualititative explanation - only for
information :
The forces on the particle

1 by the particles 2

and 3 on the shell are F12 and F13 . Consider their
components (i) parallel to OP and
(ii) perpendicular to OP. The components
perpendicular to OP are cancelled and the  If r1 and r2 are the shortest and longest
components parallel to OP are added. Such a distance of planet from the sun
process can be thought for the particles on respectively then
symmentric positions with respect to line OP
2 1 1
on the shell. Thus, it can be seen that the resultant = +
r r1 r2
force is towards the centre. We shall accept
without giving proof that its magnitude is where r is the distance between planet and
obtained as mentioned above. sun, when the planet is perpendicular to
Qualititative explanation - only for the major axis.
information : 2r1 r2
Different particles of the shell attract the given  r=
particle in different directions and the resultant r1 + r 2
of those forces becomes zero. This also we will
accept without giving proof. (2) Let the speed of the planet at the
perihelion P in Figure be vP and the
Sun-planet distance SP be rP. Relate
[rP , vP] to the corresponding quantities
at the aphelion [rA , vA]. Will the planet
take equal times to traverse BAC and
For r > R, the force due to the shell is towards
the centre of the shell CPB ?
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Kepler’s Laws  Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation 9
(3) A planet moving along an elliptical
orbit is closest to the sun at a distance
r1 and farthest away at a distance of r2.
If v1 and v2 are the linear velocities at
these points respectively then the ratio
v1
= ........ [NEET : 2011]
v2
r2 2 r2
(A) r (B)
1 r1
r1 r1 2

(C) r (D) r
2 2

Solution : Solution : [ Ans. : B ]

 The magnitude of the angular momentum  From conservation of angular momentum,

at P is Lp = mp rp vp L1 = L2

 Since inspection tells us that rp and vp are  mv1r1 = mv2r2

mutually perpendicular.
v1 r2
Similarly, LA = mp rA vA.  =
v2 r1
 From angular momentum conservation
(4) The period of revolution of planet A
mp vp rp = mp vA rA or round the sun is 8 times that of B. The
vp rA distance of A from the sun is how many
vA = rP times greater than that of B from the
 Since rA > rp , vp > vA. sun ? [NEET : 1997]
(A) 5 (B) 4 (C) 3 (D) 2
 The area SBAC bounded by the ellipse
and the radius vectors SB and SC is larger Solution : [ Ans. : B ]
than SBPC in figure.  According to Kepler’s third law,
 From Kepler’s second law, equal areas are 2
T  r3
swept in equal times. 2 3
TA rA
 Hence the planet will take a longer time  2
= 3
TB rB
to traverse BAC than CPB.
rA TA 2/3
2/3
 = = (8)
rB TB

=4
rA = 4 rB

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 10 Kepler’s Laws  Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation
(5) The position vector of the objects of Solution :
masses 25 kg and 10 kg are (4,7,5)m
 Let the spaceship of mass m be at ‘x’
and (1,3,5)m respectively. Obtain the
distance from the Earth value Fe = Fs
vector representing the gravitational 8 11
 r = 1.49  10 km = 1.49  10 m
force on 25 kg object by 10 kg object. 24
Me = 6 10 kg
( Take G = 6.67  1011 Nm2/kg2 ) 30
MS = 2 10 kg
Solution :
Sun
Spaceship
 Here,m1 = 25 kg, Earth

m2 = 10 kg,

r1 = (4,7,5)m,

r2 = (1,3,5)m

F 12 = ?  Gravitational force applied on space craft
by the Earth = gravitational force by the
 Gm1m2  sun on the space craft.
F12  r 12 (1)
r2
Force on GM em GM S m
1 by 2 =
(r _ x)
2 2
x
  
(r _ x)
2
 r12 r2  r1 (1,3,5)  (4,7,5) = (3,4,0)m MS 2 10
30

2
= = 24
x Me 6 10

 r = |r12| = (-3) + (-4) + (0) = 5m
2 2 2


r_x 10
3
=
 r 12 (-3,-4,0) x 3
 and r12 =  = = (-0.6, -0.8, 0) m
|r12| 5
3r _ 3x = 1000 x
 Substituting these values in equation (1)
(1000 + 3) x = 3 r
 (25 10)
F12 = (6.67  10-11) (0.6, 0.8, 0) 3r
52 x=
  1000 + 3
= (6.67  10-10) ( 0.6 i  0.8 j ) N 11
3 (1.49  10 )
=
1000 + 3
(6) A space craft goes from the Earth x = 2.57  10 km
5

directly to the sun. How far from the

centre of the Earth the gravitational
(7) The mass of one object is M. How
forces exerted on it by the Earth and
should the body be divided into two
by the sun would be of equal magnitude
parts, so that the force acting between
? The distance between the Earth and
the two parts is maximum for a given
the sun is 1.49  108 km. The masses of
separation between them ?
the sun and the Earth are 2  1030 kg
and 6  1024 kg respectively.
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Kepler’s Laws  Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation 11
Solution :  Resultant force of three forces becomes
 The condition for the force to become zero because here vectors denoting force
dF makes closed loop.
maximum =0
dm
 Suppose the mass of one piece is m and (9) Three masses of equal value are placed
another is ( M  m ) and the distance at the three vertices of a square. If the
between them is r. force acts between m1 and m2 is F12 and
Gm M  m between m1 and m3 is F13 ,
F =
2 F12
r then find .
F13
dF G d 2
= [ mM  m ] Solution :
dm r
2 dm

G
0 = [ M  2m ]
r2
M
 m =
2
(8) At each vertex of an equilateral triangle
a particle of mass m kg is kept. What
is the gravitational force acting on a
 Suppose length of side of square is a,
mass M kg placed at centroid of the
triangle ? The distance of centroid from from pythagoras theorem,
2 2 2
the vertex is 1 m. AC = AD + CD
2 2
Solution : =a +a
AC = 2 a

Gm 2
 F12 = 2
a

Gm 2
 F13 = 2
( 2a)
 From given figure, sum of all three force
   F 12
vectors F GA F GB and F GC as per the
 = 2
triangular method is given below. F 13

(10) At each vertex of a square a particle of

mass m kg is kept. The length of each
side of a square is a. Then find the
gravitational force acting on any one
mass placed at any vertex.
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 12 Kepler’s Laws  Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation

Solution :
GM
(A) (1+2 2)
R
1 GM
(B) (1+2 2)
2 R
GM
(C)
R
GM
(D) 2 2
R
Solution : [ Ans. : B ]
 Suppose we want to calculate resultant
force on mass m placed at vertex B, due  Here, resultant gravitational force on any
to all masses. one particle due to all is equal and its
 From figure, direction is towards to centre of circular
path.
Gm 2
 FBA = FBC = 2
and
a
F' = 2 Gm2 and
2
a
Gm2
FBD = 2
2a
 Resultant force,

 FB = FBD + F'
 From figure resultant gravitaional force F
Gm 2
2 Gm2 on particle 1 is,
= 2 + 2
2a a
Gm2  F = F12 cos 45+ F13 + F14 cos 45
FB = 2 (½ + 2)
a Gm2 Gm2 Gm2 1
= 1

2 2 2
( 2 R) 2 (2 R) ( 2 R) 2
(11) Four particles each of mass M and Gm2 Gm2
=2 1

equidistant from each other, move 2R
2
2 4R
2

along a circle of radius R under the

= Gm2
2
1 + 1
action of their mutual gravitational
2R 2 4
attraction. The speed of each particle
Gm2 4+ 2
is .............. .  Mv =
2
2
[ JEE-2014 ] R R 4 2

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Kepler’s Laws  Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation 13
Gm 4+ 2 (13) Suppose, the acceleration due to gravity
v2 =
R 4 2 at the Earth's surface is 10 m/s2 and at
the surface of Mars it is 4.0 m/s2. A
1 Gm
v = 2 2+1 60 kg pasenger goes from the Earth to
2 R
the Mars in a spaceship moving with a
Gm constant velocity. Neglect all other
v = 1 (1+2 2)
2 R objects in the sky. Which part of figure
best represents the weight ( net
gravitational force ) of the passenger as
a function of time ? [AIIMS : 2012]
(12) Choose any one of the following four
responses :
(A) If both Assertion and Reason are
true and reason is the correct
explanation of the Assertion.
(B) If both Assertion and Reason are
true but Reason is not a correct
explanation of the Assertion.
(C) If Assertion is true but Reason is (A) A (B) B (C) C (D) D
false Solution : [ Ans. : C ]

(D) If both Assertion and Reason are

false. NOTE
Assertion : Moon has no atmosphere.
Reason : If the gas-molecules are
formed on the surface of moon, the
average kinetic energy of the molecule
at the temperature prevailing there, is
just equal to their potential energy.
(A) A (B) B
(C) C (D) D
Solution : [ Ans. : C ]

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 14 Kepler’s Laws  Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation

Current Topic Practice (B) F1 / 2

(14) The figure shows elliptical orbit of a planet (C) Any value less then F1
m about the sun S. The shaded area SCD
(D) 2 F1
is twice the shaded area SAB. If t1 is the
time for the planet to move from C to D (18) In the figure if the speed of the planet at
and t2 is the time to move from A to B, A is v1; what is the speed at B ?
then . [ NEET : 2009 ]

Sun

(A) t1 > t2 (B) t1 = 2t2

(C) t1 = 4t2 (D) t1 = t2
(A) v2 = v1x1 / x2 (B) v2 = v1x2 / x1
(15) Make suitable pairs :
(C) v2 = x2 / v1x1 (D) v2 = x1 / v1x2
I II
(19) Which of the following is the dimensional
(P) Kepler's 1 law
st
(1) Law of periods
formula for G ?
(Q) Kepler's 2nd law (2) Law of orbits 1 3 2 1 3 2
(A) M L T (B) M L T
(3) Law of areas 1 3 2 1 3 2
(C) M L T (D) M L T
(A) P  1, Q  2 (B) P  2, Q  3
(20) Two spheres of masses m and M are
(C) P  3, Q  2 (D) P  2, Q  1 situated in air and the gravitational force
(16) Kepler's second law about the constancy between them is F. The space around the
of the areal velocity of the planet is the masses is now filled with a liquid of
consequence of the law of conservation specific density 3. The gravitational force
of will now be......... [ NEET : 2003 ]
(A) energy (A) F / 3 (B) F / 9
(B) linear momentum (C) 3F (D) F
(C) angular momentum (21) Two particles of mass m are revolving on
(D) charge a circle due to gravitational force what is
(17) When two bodies are in air, the the speed of each particle about a centre
gravitational force between them is F1. If of mass. [JEE : 2011]
they are put inside water at the same Gm Gm
(A) (B)
separation, what would be the force R 4R
between them ? Gm Gm
(C) (D)
(A) Same as F1 3R 2R
Answer : (14) B (15) B (16) C (17) A (18) A (19) C (20) D (21) B
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Kepler’s Laws  Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation 15
(22) At each vertex of a square a particle of (27) For a planet revolving around the sun
mass m kg is kept. What is the gravitational (A) linear speed and angular speed are
force acting on a mass M kg placed at the constant
intersection point of two diagonal. The (B) areal velocity and angular momentum
distance of intersection of two diagonal are constant
from the vertex is 1 m. (C) linear speed and areal velocity are
(23) At each vertex of an equilateral triangle a constant
particle of mass 2 kg is kept. What is the (D) areal velocity is constant but angular
gravitational force acting on a mass 4 kg momentum changes
placed at the centroid of the triangle ?
(28) A planet is moving in an elliptical orbit
The distance of centroid from the vertex around the sun. If T, U, E and L stand for
is 2 m. its kinetic energy, gravitational potential
(24) If the mass of moon is (M/81), where M energy, total energy and magnitude of
is the mass of earth, find the distance of angular momentum about the centre of
the point from the moon, where force, which of the following is correct ?
gravitational field due to earth and moon [NEET : 1990]
cancel each other. Given that distance (A) T is conserved
between earth and moon is 60 R where R
(B) U is always positive
is the radius of earth : [AIIMS : 2000]
(C) E is always negative
(A) 4 R (B) 8 R
(D) L is conserved but direction of vector
(C) 2 R (D) 6 R
L changes continuously
(25) The radius of the circular orbit of the Earth, (29) The K.E. of a planet in an elliptical orbit
revolving around the sun is 1.5  108 km. about the Sun, at positions A , B and C
The orbital speed of the Earth is 30 km/s. are KA , KB and KC , respectively. AC is
Calculate the mass of the sun from this major axis and SB is perpendicular to AC
data. G = 6.67  10-11 Nm2/kg2. at the position of the Sun S as shown in
(26) Which of the following has the unit the figure. Then, [ NEET : 2018 ]
N m2 / kg2 ?
(A) linear momentum
(B) gravitational force
(C) universal constant of gravitation
(D) gravitational acceleration.
(A) KB > KA > KC (B) KA < KB < KC
(C) KB < KA < KC (D) KA > KB > KC
Answer : (24) D (26) C (27) B (28) C (29) D
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 16 Kepler’s Laws  Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation
(33) A comet orbits the sun in a highly elliptical
(30) Kepler's third law states that square
orbit. Does the comet have a constant
of period of revolution (T) of a
(a) linear speed,
planet around the sun, is proportional to
third power of average distance r (b) angular speed,
between sun and planet. i.e. T2 = Kr3, here (c) angular momentum,
K is constant. If the masses of sun and (d) kinetic energy,
planet are M and m respectively (e) potential energy,
then as per Newton's law of gravitation (f) total energy throughout its orbit ?
force of attraction between them is,
Neglect any mass loss of the comet when
F = (GMm / r2), here G is gravitational
it comes very close to the Sun.
constant. The relation between G and K
is described as : [NEET : 2015] NOTE
2 2
(A) GK = 4 (B) GMK = 4
(C) K = G (D) K = 1 / G
(31) The force of gravitation is :
[AIIMS : 2007]
(A) repulsive
(B) conservative
(C) electrostatic
(D) non-conservative
(32) A satellite S is moving in an elliptical orbit
around the earth. The mass of the satellite
is very small compared to the mass of the
earth. Then [AIIMS : 2011]
(A) the acceleration of S is always directed
towards the centre of the earth
(B) the angular momentum of S about the
centre of the earth changes in direction,
but its magnitude remains constant
(C) the total mechanical energy of S varies
periodically with time
(D) the linear momentum of S remains
constant in magnitude

Answer : (30) B (31) B (32) A

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Kepler’s Laws  Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation 17
Hints & Solution  Centripital force = gravitational force

(14) mv2 Gm 2
= 2
R (2R)
 Applying Kepler’s second law,
dA Gm 2
 = constant  v=
dt 4R
A1 A2 (22)
 =
t1 t2

 Here A1 = area under SCD

A2 = area under ABS

A1
 t1 = t
A2 2
A1 = 2 A2  Suppose the intersection point of two of
 t1 = 2 t2 diagonal is O and gravitaional force on
mass M due to all masses is,
(17)  
FOA = GMm (AO)
 Gravitational field is independent of the 1
2

medium. 
GmM 
(18) FOC = 2
(CO)
1
 From conservation of angular  
momentum, L1 = L2 FOB = GMm2
(BO)
1
 mv1x1 = mv2x2
 
v 1x 1 FOD = GMm 2
(DO)
 v2 = 1
x2
 Here all the forces are equal and opposite
to each other net resultant force at point
(20) 
O, FO = 0.
 Gravitational force is independent from
(24)
the medium.
(21)  As per Solved problem No. 6.
(25)
8 11
 r = 1.5 10 km = 1.5 10 m
4
v = 30 km/sec = 3  10 m/s
MS = ?
_11 2 2
G = 6.67  10 Nm / kg
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 18 Kepler’s Laws  Newton’s Universal Law of Gravitation
 when earth rotates around the sun with (30)
the velocity v
 We know that,
 centrepetal force on the earth =
2 3
Gravitational force by the sun 2 4 r
T = ... ... ...(1)
GM

2 3
Earth T = Kr ... ... ...(2)
 From equation (1) and (2)
2
Mev GMeMS GMK = 4
2
=
r r
2

2 (33)
MS = rv
G  A comet while going on elliptical orbit
11 4 2
(1.5 10 ) (3  10 ) around the sun has constant angular
= _11
6.67  10 momentum and total energy at all
locations, but other quantities vary with
MS = 2.02  1030 kg
locations.

(26) NOTE
G m1 m2 Fr2
 F=  G =
r2 m1 m2
Fr 2

 unit of G = unit of = Nm2 / kg2

m1 m2

(27)
 From the law of conservation of angular
momentum...
(29)
 At position A, potential energy is
minimum,
GMm
U=
r

 So kinetic energy is maximum.

 At position C, U is maximum.
 So kinetic energy is minimum,
KA > KB > KC

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Universal Constant of Gavitation 19
4 Universal Constant of Gavitation:  In this condition the positions of large
spheres P and Q (or P' and Q') are on lines
 The value of the constant G appearing in
perpendicular to AB.
the formula Gm1m2/r2 showing Newton’s
When position of large sphere is taken to P'
universal law of gravitation, was first and Q', the direction of torque will be reversed
determined by Cavendish an English so the wire will be twisted.
Scientist experimentally in 1798. The  Suppose, mass of each large sphere = M
experimental arrangement is schematically mass of each small sphere = m
shown in following figure.  Distance between their centres in equilibrium
condition = AP = BQ = r.
Angle of twist in the wire in equilibrium
condition =
The restoring torque per unit twist = k
tortional constant (N m / rad )
 Length of rod, AB = l.
 The gravitational force on the small sphere
GMm
due to the large sphere = (1)
r2
The total torque (moment of force couple)
 From a rigid support a long rod is due to both such forces
suspended using a thin metallic wire. Two magnitude of one force x perpendicular distance.
small equal lead spheres A and B are
GMm
attached at the ends of the rod. Two other = (l) (2)
r2
equal large lead spheres are brought near
and the restoring torque  = k (3)
the small spheres on opposite sides at equal
In equilirium condition
distances.
GMm
( l ) = k (4)
 The forces on the small spheres due to the r2
large spheres are equal in magniude and
k r2
opposite in directions. These forces  G= (5)
Mml
produce torque. Hence the rod rotates
 Here the value of  is obtained with the
about wire OM. Thus wire OM is twisted
help of a small mirror attached to the wire,
and the restoring torque (due to elasticity)
using lamp and scale method. These are
is produced in the wire.
not shown in figure.
 When the torque due to the gravitational
 Moreover the value of k is obtained from
forces equals the restoring torque, this
some separate experiment of other kind in
system becomes steady (i.e. it comes in
which known torque  is applied and the
equilibrium).
twist in the wire  is measured which gives

k= 
 Thus by measuring , G can be evaluted.
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 Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It
20
5 Gravitation Acceleration And  Acceleration due to gravity for the particle
Variations In It : on the Earth’s surface is
5.1 (a) Acceleration due to gravity :
G Me
 “The acceleration produced in the ge = = 4  GRe

3 (3)
Re 2
body due to the gravitational force is
called the gravitational acceleration or  As we have considered the Earth as a
the acceleration due to gravity (g).” perfect sphere the value of ge at all points
 Considering Earth as a perfect sphere of on the Earth’s surface would be the same.
uniform density we shall consider the (assume Re is equal )
acceleration due to Earth’s gravity at  In fact, Earth is not completely spherical
different points. but is slightly bulged out at the equator and
 We can imagine Earth to be made up of flatterned at the poles. The radius of Earth
( ) at equator is nearly 21 km more than the
innumerable concentric hollow spherical
shells.Now a particle outside the Earth is radius at the poles. Hence the value of ge at
the poles is slightly more than that at the
also outside all these shells. Hence, to
equator.
find the gravitational force on that particle,
 But the variation in the value of ge at
we can consider the mass of every shell
different places on Earth’s surface is
as concentrated at the center of Earth.
extremely small and hence for practical
Thus to find the force on that particle due
purposes the value of ge at every point on
to entire Earth, we can consider the entire
the Earth’s surface is taken the same.
mass of the Earth to be concentrated at
 The empirical value of ge is found to be
its centre. equal to 9.8 m/s2. 
 Let the mass of Earth be Me and radius be 5.2 (b) Variation in gravitational
Re. The gravitational force of earth on accleration g with altitude :
the particle of mass m, at distance r from  The acceleration due to gravity at the Earth’s
the centre. surface is given by,
G Me m
(here r > Re ); is F = (1) G Me
r2 ge = (1)
 Hence, from Newton’s second law of R e2
motion we can write, the acceleration due
to gravity Doesn't depend on the mass or
volume of the object
( )
F G Me
g= m  g = (2)
r2

 Now, for the particle on the surface of

Gravitational acceleration at height h from
Earth , r = Re the Earth’s surface
  You may calculate the value of ge by taking
( ) Same centre
F force Me = 6  1024 kg and Re = 6400 km in the above
( ) F = ma a = acceleration = equation.
m mass

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Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It 21
 The point P at height h from the Earth’s  Equation (5) can be used for any height (h)
surface is at distance r = Re + h from the but equation (6) can be used only when
centre of the Earth. h << Re .
 The gravitational force of the Earth on a  We can take the value of g almost equal to
body of mass m at this point is ge for small heights from the Earth’s surface.
 Let us understand this by an example : To
G Me m
F(h) = (2) find g for h = 10 km height from Earth’s
(Re + h)2
surface, we put Re = 6400 km and
 at P gravitational acceleration is ge = 9.8 m/s2 in equation (6)
( same as
F(h) G Me
(3) G M e / r
2
g (h) = m = (2) (10)
(Re + h)2 where g ( h = 10 km ) = 9.8 1 _
r > Re and 6400
2
g  1/r2 ) = 9.8 _ 0.028
g (h) Re
 = 2 = 9.772
ge (Re + h)
2
Re
2 = 9.8 m/s .
 g (h) = (4)
2 h
2
 Thus on the Earth’s entire suface and for
Re 1+ small heights from surface we can take
Re
g = ge = 9.8 m/s2 for practical purposes.
ge
 g (h) = 2
h (5) 5.3 Variation in the gravitational
1+
Re acceleration g with depth from the
 It is clear from this that g (h) < ge surface of the Earth :
2
h
in denominator 1 + so,
Re
5.2.2 from equation (5),
h 
2
g(h) = ge 1 +
Re
2h h
= ge [ 1 _ + terms with powers
Re Re
greater than 1.] .... (using binomial
theorem).
 If h << Re, we can neglect the terms
having powers greater than 1 of h . In
Re
such a condition  Consider a particle of mass m at point P at
at height h decrease in g a depth d from the suface of the Earth.
is ge - g(h) = 2 geh / Re  It is at distance r = Re - d from the centre
_ 2h
g(h) = ge 1 (6) of the earth.
Re

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 Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It
22
 To find the Earth’s gravitational force on  From equation (1) and (4) it is clear that
this particle, we can imagine the Earth as g(r) is proportional to distance r from the
made up of a small solid sphere of radius centre of Earth upto the surface. Thus, the
r = Re - d and a spherical shell of thickness gravitational acceleration at a point inside
d over it. the Earth is directly proportional to the
 This paricle at point P is situated inside distance of that point from the centre of
this hollow spherical shell. the Earth.
 Moreover, for region outside the Earth,
 Hence, the gravitational force on this
g(r) = GMe / r2, shows that g(r)  1/r2 .
particle due to the shell is zero.
 Hence starting from the centre of the Earth,
 Moreover, this particle is also on the outer
g(r) incresases in direct proportion as r
surface of the small sphere (shaded) of
increases. at centre g = 0 because r = 0
radius r.
 Then outside the surface g(r) decreases as
 Hence the gravitational force on this
inverse square of distance.
particle can be obtained by considering the
 Such variation in g are shown in following
entire mass (M') of the small sphere at its
figure.
centre O.

4 Remember Slope = ( ge / Re )
g(r) = G r (1)

3
 From this equation, the gravitational
acceleration at the surface of the Earth
(putting r = Re ) is

4 (2)
ge = G Re

3
 By substituting r = Re - d in equation (4)
 From the equations (1) and (2) the gravitational acceleration is obtained in
terms of depth d from the Earth’s surface.
g(r) r
= (3) We denote it as g(d).
ge Re
ge
 g(d) = ( Re _ d )
Re
 g(r) = ge ( )
r
Re
gr
(4)
g(d) = ge 1 _ d
Decrease in g at
(5) depth d is
Re ge  g(d) = ged/Re.

 This shows that the gravitational

acceleration at depth d has a smaller value
than that at the Earth’s surface.

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Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It 23
 Thus the acceleration due to Earth’s gravity Notes
is maximum on its surface and from there
on going above or below it decreases. It
 
becomes zero at the Earth’s centre. This is
a notable fact.
Variation in g with latitude :

r = Re cos

 The angle made by the line joining a given

place on the Earth’s surface to the centre
of the Earth with the equitorial line is called
the latitude () of that place.
 Effective gravitational acceleration at a
place where latitude is ,
put r = Re cos  in g' = ge  r 2 cos .
 g' = ge  Re 2 cos2 .
at equator (minimum)
g' = ge  Re 2 (  = 0 ) and
at poles (maximum)
g' = ge (  = 900 )
 If the rotation of the Earth stops,  = 0
and g' = ge
mean gravitational acceleration increases by
R e 2cos 2.
 If we are going towards poles from equator
 increases so cos decreases
and thats why effective gravitational
acceleration increases.
Shell :
g=0(r<R)
g = ( GM / R2 ) ( r = R )
g = ( GM / r2 ) ( r > R )

  decrease in g with hight is more speedy

than decrease in g with depth.
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 24 Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It

Solved Problems g e = 4 G Re


3
(34) At what height the weight of the object
= 4 (6.67 10 11) (3.14) (64  105 (19.3  103)
_
is 1/16 times compare to the weight of 3
that object at the surface of the earth g e = 34.49 m/s
2

( radius R ) ? [ NEET : 2012 ]

(A) 5 R (B) 15 R (C) 3 R (D) 4 R
(36) Assume that a new planet were made
Solution : [ Ans. : C ]
form a material having density same as
 According to question, that of Earth. But the volume of the
GMm 1 GMm planet would be three times that of
= 2
( R + h)
2
16 R Earth then how much the gravitational
where m = mass of body. acceleration of the new planet ?
1 1 Solution :
 =
( R + h)
2
16 R2 m' 2
gp Re
 
R ge me R'e
2

 = 1
R+h 4
 V' = 3V (given)
 R + 4 = 4R 4 4
3 3
 R'e = 3 Re
 h = 3R 3 3

3
 R'e = 3Re3
(35) If the Earth were a sphere made
completely of gold (!), what would have Re 1
= 1/3
been the magnitude of gravitational R' e 3
acceleration on its surface ?
The radius of the Earth = 6400 km, 2
gp m' Re
density of gold = 19.3  103 kg/m3.   2
ge me R'e
G = 6.67  10-11 Nm2/kg2.
 R e2
Solution :  3V 
5
V R 'e2
 R e = 6400 km = 64  10 m
2 3 2

= 19.3  10 kg/m
3 3 3R e Re 1
= 2 =3 =3
R'e R'e 3
1/3
ge = ?

GM e 
 ge = 2

 ge  
Re
-2
G( 43 Re )
3  gp ms
ge = mass = volume  density
2
Re
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Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It 25
(37) A mango of 300 g falls down from
(38) Radii of two planets are r 1 and r 2
the mango tree. Then find the respectively and their densities are   1

gravitational accelration of the and   2 respectively. The gravitational

mango toward Earth. Also find the accelerations on their surfaces are g1
gravitational acceleration of the and g2 resectively.  (g1 /g2 ) = ...........
Earth toward mango. r1 r2
 
1 2
(A) (B)
r2 2 r1

Take Me = 6  1024 kg, 1
r1 2 r2 
1
Re = 6400 km and (C) . (D) .
r2 r1
 
1 2
G = 6.67  10 -11
Nm /kg .2 2
Solution : [ Ans. : A ]
Solution :
Gm 1 G 4
 g= =  r3
 m = 0.3 kg r2 r2 3
4 3
where m = r 
Me = 6 ×1024 kg 3
 g = (4/3) G r
Re = 6400 km
on first planet g1 = (4/3) G r1 1
–11 Nm2 on second planet g2 = (4/3) G r2  2
G = 6.67 × 10 r1 1
g1
Kg 2  
GM em g r2 2
2
 F= 2
Re
(39) The density of newly discovered planet
GM em is twice that of earth. The acceleration
mg = 2
Re due to gravity at the surface of the
GM e planet is equal to that at the surface of
g=
Re
2 the earth. If the radius of the earth is
R, the radius of the planet would be :
2
g = 9.8 m/s [ NEET : 2004 ]
GM em (A) 2 R (B) 4 R (C) ¼ R (D) ½R
 Me gm = 2
Re Solution : [ Ans. : D ]
6.67 × 10–11 × 0.3 F
gm =  g=
(64) × 10
2 10 m
GMm
 F= 2
gm = 4.9 × 10
–25
m/s
2
R
4 4
[ Mp = Rp3  p , Me = Re3 ]
 
3 3 e

 =2
 
p e

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 26 Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It

gp = ge  Increase in the gravitational acceleration

GM p GM e g = g ' _ g =
25 16
  ge _ ge = ge
R p2 R e2 e e 9 9
mass = 1.778 ge
Density =
volume  Percentage increase in the magnitude of
4 4
Rp3 p) 4( Re3 gravitational acceleration

G( )

e
3 3
= increase
R e2 R e2 100
= original value
Rp = Re
 
p e
= 1.778100 = 177.8 %
Rp × 2 = Re
 
e e

Re (41) If the mass and the radius of the Earth

 Rp =
2 both decreases by 1 %, what will be the
R
Rp = percentage change in the gravitational
2
accleration at the surface ?
(40) If the radius of the Earth suddenly Solution :
decreases to 60% of the present value
 The original value of acceleration
(with mass of the Earth remaining the
same) what would be the percentage GMe
ge =
change in the magnitude of the R e2
gravitational accleration g e, on the
 If Me' = 0.99 Me and Re' = 0.99 Re , then
surface of the Earth ? new value of gravitational acceleration
Solution :
GMe' G  0.99Me
 Original value of gravitational ge' = =
R e' 2 (0.99Re )2
GM e
acceleration ge = 2 GMe
Re = 1.01
60 R e2
 New radius of Earth Re' = R
100 e ge' = 1.01 ge
= 0.6 Re  Change in the gravitational acceleration
If radius decreases by 60 % then remaining will
= ge' - ge = 1.01 ge - ge = 0.01 ge
be 40 %, so take Re' = 0.4 Re
 Percentage change in the gravitational
 New value of gravitational acceleration
GM e acceleration
ge' = ' 2 change 0.01 ge
Re =  100 =  100
GM e ge 25 g original value ge
ge' = = = e
(0.6 R )
2
0.36 9
e = 1%
For CTP 76, We have, (dg/g) x 100 % =  Thus the magnitude of ge increases by 1 %.
 2[(dr/r) x 100 %] which is used up to 9% variation
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Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It 27
(42) As shown in the figure, from an iron  
sphere of mass M and radius R; a small GMm  1 
sphere of diameter R is cut. Find the force = 1– 
d2  8 (2d – R)2 
of gravitational on the body of mass m  
 4d2 
due to the remaining sphere at a point at
distance d from the centre of the original G M m d2 
F  1– 
sphere on the line joining the centres of  d 2  2(2d – R)2 
the two spheres.
(43) Read the following paragraph and
answer the questions that follow :
The reason for the tides in the ocean is
the gravitation. In this phenomenon
gravitation of the sun and the moon
both play part. Actually the gravi-
Solution : [ Ans. : B ] tational force by the sun on the Earth
is nearly 175 times that exerted by the
 For big sphere : radius R, mass M , volume moon on the Earth. However in the
V. phenomenon of tides the contribution
 Volume of small sphere of radius (R/2) by the moon is more than that by the
sun - it is nearly 2.17 times that by the
4
V' = 3  
R
2
=
4
3
R3 ×
1
8
= V
8 sun. What could be the reason for this?
M The reason for this is that the calcu-
Fmass of small sphere,M' =
8
lations reveal that the tide generating
 REsultant force at point P, force (tidal force) depends on the rate
of the change of gravitational force
gravitational gravitational
F = force due to big – force due to with distance and not on the magni-
sphere small sphere tude of the gravitational force itself.
Hence in spite of
Fby sun > Fby moon since d/dr Fby moon > d/dr Fby sun
GMm GM'm
F= –
d2 2 the contribution by the moon is more
 R
 d–  in the phenomenon of tides.
 2
GMm d 2GMm
GMm F= gives (F) = r3
r2 dr
GMm 8
F= 2
– 2 From this the tidal force is found to be
d 2 R
d 1–  proportional to M/r3 when M = mass
 2d 
of sun or moon and r = their distance
from Earth.
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 28 Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It

Questions (c) If you compare the gravitational

(i) In the tides in the ocean; out of the force on the earth due to the sun to
sun and the moon, which has greater that due to the moon, you would
contribution ? find that the Sun’s pull is greater
(ii) If we find M/r3 for the sun and for the than the moon’s pull. (you can
moon; which would be greater ? check this yourself using the data
available in the succeeding
(iii) What is the relative strength of the
exercises). However, the tidal effect
gravitational forces on the Earth by
of the moon’s pull is greater than
the sun and by the moon ?
the tidal effect of sun. Why ?
Solution :
Solution :
(i) In the phenomenon of tides the (a) No, the gravitaional force on a body due
contribution by the moon is more then to near by matter is independent of the
that by the sun is nearly 2.17 times that presence of other matter. It means
by the sun because the field force is in gravitational screenings are not possible.
M
proportion of . (b) Yes, if the size of the spaceship orbiting
r3
around the earth is large enough an
M astronaut inside the space ship can detect
(ii) The magnitude of is more than that
r3 the variation in g.
of the moon.
(c) The tidal effect depends inversly upon the
(iii) F(by sun) = 175 F(by moon)
cube of the distance, where as the
gravitaional force varies inversly with the
(44) Answer the following :
square of the distance. As the moon is
(a) You can shield a charge from closer to earth than the sun, so its tidal
electrical forces by putting it inside effect is greater than that of the sun.
a hollow conductor. Can you shield
Ratio :
a body from the gravitational
influence of near by matter by Tm  d s 
3

putting it inside a hollow sphere or  

Ts  d m 
by some other means?
where T shows the tidal effect
(b) An astronaut inside a small space
ship orbiting around the earth  1.5  1011 
3

cannot detect gravity. If the space   8 


 3.8  10 
station orbiting around the earth
has a large size, can he hope to = 61.5 × 106
detect gravity ?

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Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It 29
(45) Suppose the gravitational force varies (47) Two masses m1 and m2 ( m1 < m2 ) are
inversly as the nth power of distance.
released from rest from a finite distance.
Then the time period of a planet in
They start under their mutual
circular orbit of radius 'R' around the
gravitational attraction :
sun will be proportional to .............
[JEE : 2004] [AIIMS : 2012]
(A) R
n
(B) R
(n-1/2) (A) acceleration of m1 is more than that
(n+1/2) (n-2/2) of m2
(C) R (D) R
(B) acceleration of m2 is more than that
Solution : [ Ans. : C ]
of m1
 Centripital force (FC)
(C) centre of mass of system will remain
= gravitational force (Fg)
at rest in all the reference fram
mv 2 Mm (D) total energy of system does not
=G n
R R remain constant
GM Solution : [ Ans. : A ]
 v2 =
R n–1

4π 2 R 2 GM  2πR  (48) If the mass of the Sun were ten times

 =  v   smaller and the universal gravitational
T2 R n–1  T 
constant were ten times larger in
4π 2 n+1 magnitude, which of the following is
 T2 = R
GM not correct ? [ NEET : 2018 ]
1
2 n+1  (A) g on the Earth will not change.
 4π 2 
T =   R 2  (B) Raindrops will fall faster.
 GM   
 
(C) Tine period of a simple pendulum
n+1 on the Earth would decrease.
T  R 2 (D) Walking on the ground would
(46) Two astronauts are floating in become more difficult.
gravitational free space after having
Solution : [ Ans. : A ]
lost contact with their spaceship. The
two will : [ NEET : 2017 ] (49) The height at which the acceleration
(A) keep floating at the same distance due to gravity becomes (g / 9 ) ( whsere
between them g = the acceleration due to gravity on
the surface of the earth) in terms of R,
(B) move away from each other
the radius of the earth, is : [JEE : 2009]
(C) move towards each other
(A) R / 2 (B) R/2
(D) will become stationary
(C) 2 R (D) 2R
Solution : [ Ans. : C ]
Solution : [ Ans. : D ]
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 30 Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It

ge Solution : [ Ans. : D ]
 From, g(h) = 2
h  Inside the earth g  d.
1+
Re
GM
ge  On the surface of earth g =
g(h) =  h = 2 Re R2
9
1
 For outside earth g 
(50) The change in the value of 'g' at a d2
height 'h' above the surface of the earth
is the same as at a depth 'd' below the
(52) If we take the gravitational acceleration
surface of earth. When both 'd' and 'h'
are much smaller than the radius of at the Earth’s surface as 10 m/s2 and
earth, then which one of the following radius of the Earth as 6400 km, the
is correct ? [ AIEEE : 2005 ] decrease in the value of the
(A) d = 3 h / 2 (B) d = h / 2 gravitational acceleration g at a depth
of 64 km from its surface would be .......
(C) d = h (D) d = 2 h
(A) 0.1 m/s2 (B) 0.2 m/s2
Solution : [ Ans. : D ]
(C) 0.05 m/s2 (D) 0.3 m/s2
 g (d) = g (h)
Solution : [ Ans. : A ]
 d   2h 
g e  1–   ge 1 –   Gravitational acceleration from the surface
 Re   Re 
of the Earth at height d,
 d   2h 
1–   1 –
 Re  
  d = 2h
Re  g = ge ( 1_
d
Re )
(51) The variation of acceleration due to
d
gravity g with distance d from centre = ge _ g
Re e
of the earth is best represented by
( R = Earth's radius ) : [AIEEE : 2017] dg e
(A) (B)  g _ ge = _
Re

64 10
= _
6400

(C) (D)  g _ ge = _ 0.1 m/s2

 Negative sign shows decrease in
gravitational acceleration
OR
decrease = ged/Re

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Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It 31
(53) The acceleration due to gravity on the  Distance travelled by an object in time t,
planet A is 9 times the acceleration due falling freely near the earth’s surface
to gravity on planet B. A man jumps 1
de = ge t 2
to a height of 2m on the surface of A. 2
What is the height of jump by the same Distance travelled by an object in time t,
person on the planet B ? falling freely near the moon surface
[ NEET : 2003 ]
1
(A) 6 m (B) 2 / 3 m  dm = gm t2
2
(C) 2 / 9 m (D) 18 m
dm g
Solution : [ Ans. : D ]  = m
de ge
 gA = 9 gB (given)
gm
 d m = de 
v = 2gh
2
ge
v2 ge
For planet A, hA = ... ... ...(1) = 60 ×
2g A 6g e

v2 dm = 10 m
For planet B, hB  ... ... ...(2)
2g B
dividing eqn (2) by eqn (1) (55) Imagine earth to be a solid sphere of
hA gB mass M and radius R. If the value of
 =
hB gA acceleration due to gravity at a depth
'd' below earth's surface is same as its
hA g
 = B = 19 value at a height 'h' above its surface
hB 9 gB
and equal to ( g / 4 ) ( where g is the
 hB = 9 hA value of acceleration due to gravity on
=9×2 the surface of earth), the ratio of (h / d)
will be :
hB = 18 m
[ NEET : 2017 ]
(54) A man travels a distance of 60 m
(A) 1 (B) 4 / 3 (C) 3 / 2 (D) 2 / 3
initially in the free fall from near the
Earth's surface. What distance would Solution : [ Ans. : B ]
be travel initially in the free fall near g
 g(h) = 2
the moon's surface in the same time ?  h 
 1+ 
gm = ge / 6  Re 
(A) 60 m (B) 360 m
g g

(C) 100 m (D) 10 m 4  h 
2

1  
Solution : [ Ans. : D ]  Re 
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 32 Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It

h Solution : [ Ans. : A ]
  1 
Re
 Change in weigth of object,
 d 
 g (d )  g 1 –  mdge
 Re  m (g – ge) = –
Re
g  d 
= g  1– 
4  Re   1600  103  10 
m (g – ge) = – m  
d 1  6400 
 = 1–
Re 4
104
d 3 
 =  4
Re 4
= 25%
From (1) & (2),
h 4

d 3
58) Find the period of rotation of the Earth
about its own axis in terms of Re and g
(56) Person ‘A’ standing on the surface of for which the effective acceleration due
the Earth and persons B and C are to gravity becomes zero at the equator?
standing on at the top of the Aifil tower
and at the depth as the height of aifil Also can be asked that if effective weight is zero ?

tower resectively. If accelerations due

to gravity acting upon them are gA, gB Solution :
and gC respectively then
 At the equator the latitude  = 0.
(A) gA > gB > gC
(B) gB > gA > gC  The effective acceleration due to gravity

(C) gA > gC > gB at a place having latitude  on the Earth’s

surface is given by
(D) gC  gB > gA
Solution : [ Ans. : C ] g’ = g  Re2cos2
 Re = radius of the Earth
(57) Calculate the fractional decrement in
 g = gravitational acceleration at the
the weight of the object when it is taken
Earth’s surface without considering
to the 1600 km downwards in the earth.
rotation.
Radius of the earth is 6400 km.
(A) 25 % (B) 30 %  angular speed of Earth’s rotation
(C) 40 % (D) 15 % 2
= .
T

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Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It 33
 We want to find time-period T for g'= 0 at Current Topic Practice
the equator.
(60) What will be the formula of the mass in terms
 0 = g - Re2cos2(0)
 g = Re2 (cos0= 1) of g, R and G ? ( R = radius of earth )

4 [ NEET : 1996 ]

= Re g 2R GR
2
T2
(A) (B)
G g
Re
 T2 = 4 GR gR 2
g (C) (D)
g G
Re g (61) If the radius of the earth were to shrink
 
 T = 2 g ( ) Re by one percent, its mass remaining the
same, the acceleration due to gravity on
the earth's surface would........
(59) What would be the fictitious (pseudo)
[IIT : 1981]
acceleration of the body lying on the
(A) decrease (B) remain unchanged
equator of Earth in the radial direction
(C) increase (D) be zero
away from the Earth’s centre due to its
rotation? (62) The mass and diameter of a spherical
planet is M P and D P respectively the
A R e B 2 R e acceleration due to gravity experienced by
C R e2 D 2R e2 the objects of mass m is ........
[NEET : 2012]
Solution : [ Ans. : B ]
4GMP GMPm
 Where = angular speed of the earth, (A) 2
(B) 2
DP DP
Re = radius of the earth GMP 4GM Pm
(C) 2
(D) 2
centripetal acceleration ac = v2 / Re DP DP
(63) If the Earth were a sphere made completely
but put v = Re 
of iron (!), what would have been the
ac = Re22 / Re = Re2 magnitude of gravitational acceleration on
its surface ?
The radius of the Earth = 6.37  106 m
density of iron = 7.86  103 kg/m3.
G = 6.67  10-11 Nm2/kg2.
( ) Obtained T for  = 450 lattitude
Answer will be,
Re
T = 2 Answer : (60) D (61) C (62) A
g
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 34 Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It

(64) The gravitational acceleration on the (69) If the densities of two equal radii planets
surface of moon is 1.67 ms-2. If the radius

are and than

1 2
of moon is 1.74  106 then find the mass 2
g g2
 
1
of the moon. (A) 1 = 1
(B) =
g2 g1
 
2 2
Take G = 6.67  10 11
Nm /kg .
2 2
g1
 2 2
g2

1 1
(C) = (D) =
(65) Average density of the earth ....... g2 2

g1

2 2

[AIEEE : 2005] (70) If the radii of two planets are r1 and r2 and
(A) is a complex function of g their masses are m 1 and m 2 and their
(B) does not depend on g gravitational accelerations are g1 and g2
(C) is inversely proportional to g than m1 / m2 =
(D) directly proportional to g (A) g1r2 / g2r1
2
(B) g1r12 / g2r2
4
g =  G r g (C) g2r1 / g1r2 (D) g2r22 / g1r12
 
3
(71) Two planets having radii r 1 and r 2
(66) Imagine a new planet having the same
respectively are made up of same material,
density as that of earth but it is 3 times
then the ratio of the acceleration due to
bigger than the earth in size. If the
gravity on the surface of the planets
acceleration due to gravity on the surface
of earth is g and that on the surface of the ( g1 / g2 ) is .......
new planet is g', then [ NEET : 2005 ] (A) r1 / r2 (B) 2r1 / r2
(A) g' = 3g (B) g' = g / 9 (C) r2 / r1 (D) 2r2 / r1
(C) g' = 9g (D) g' = 27g
(72) If the mass and the radius of the Earth both
GM G decreases by 2 % what will be the
g= = 2 (volume)  g  r

r2 r percentage change in the gravitational
(67) If radii of two planets of equal density are acceleration at the surface?
equal and the accelerations due to gravity (73) If the mass of the Earth remaining the same
on its surfaces are g1 and g2 then which of and the radius decreases by 2%, what will
the following is true ? be the percentage change in the gravitational
A g1 > g 2 B g1 < g 2 acceleration at the surface?
C g1 = g 2 D All of the above (74) If the mass and the radius of the Earth both
(68) Which of the following relation is correct increases by 2 % what will be the
for the acceleration due to gravity on the percentage change in the gravitational
surface of the planet and its denstity. acceleration at the surface ?
2
A g  (1/ ) B g 
 

C g  D g 
 
Answer : (65) D (66) A (67) C (68) C (69) C (70) B (71) A
GYANMANJARI CAREER ACADEMY | BOARD - GUJCET - NEET - JEE | PHYSICS - PART - I
Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It 35
(75) If the mass of the Earth becomes 80 times Take g = 9.8 m/s 2

that of any one planet and the diameter of (A) 9.8 m/s2 (B) 4.9 m/s2
that planet becomes 1/4 of the Earth then
(C) 19.6 m/s2 (D) 39.2 m/s2
how much the gravitational acceleration on
(81) What would be the value of acceleration
that planet?
due to gravity if we halved the radius of
(76) If the raidus of the Earth decreases by 0.5%
the earth keeping mass constant ?
remaining its mass constant. What would
(A) 2g (B) 3g
be the change in the value of g on its
(C) 4g (D) 8g
surface?
(A) increases by 1 % (82) The mass of the earth is halved keeping
radius constant then what would be the
(B) decreases by1 %
magnitude of the acceleration due to
(C) increases by 0.5%
gravity ?
(D) decreases by0.5 %
(A) 2g (B) g / 2
(77) If the gravitational acceleration at the
(C) g / 4 (D) g / 3
Earth’s surface is 9.81 m/s2, what is its
value at a height equal to the diameter of (83) The density of a planet having the radius
the Earth from its surface? same as of the earth is twice then the
(A) 4.905 m/s2 (B) 2.452 m/s2 density of earth, then value of g on that
planet will be .........
(C) 3.27 m/s2 (D) 1.09 m/s2
(A) 2ge (B) 3ge
(78) If the gravitational acceleration at the
Earth’s surface is 9.81 m/s2, what is its (C) ge (D) 4ge
value at a height equal to the radius of the (84) The mass of the moon is 1/81 times than
Earth from its surface? earth and the dimeter of the moon is
(A) 1.45 m/s2 (B) 2.45 m/s2 ( 1 / 3.7 ) times than the earth. If the value
of g on the surface of earth is 9.8 m/s2 .
(C) 4 m/s2 (D) 4.25 m/s2
then the value of g on the surface of the
(79) If the value of gravitational acceleration
moon will be ....
at the Earth’s surface is 9.81 m/s2, then at
(A) 1.83 (B) 1.63
what times of distance than the radius from
the surface of the earth the gravitational (C) 1.43 (D) 1.23
acceleration will be 1.09 m/s2 ? (85) If a mass of a body is M on the earth
(A) 2 (B) 3 (C) 4 (D) 6 surface, the mass of the same body on
(80) A planet which has mass and radius are moon surace will be : [AIIMS : 1997]
half of the Earth, what wll be the (A) M (B) M / 6
acceleration due to graivity for that planet? (C) zero (D) none of these

Answer : (76) A (77) D (78) B (79) A (80) C (81) C (82) B (83) A (84) B (85) A
GYANMANJARI CAREER ACADEMY | BOARD - GUJCET - NEET - JEE | PHYSICS - PART - I
 36 Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It

(86) The acceleration due to gravity at a height (91) If magnitude of gravitational acceleration
1 km above the earth is the same as at a at height d from the surface of the earth is
depth d below the surface of earth. Then: 6.2 m/s2, d = ........... ? Take g = 9.8 m/s2
[ NEET - 2017 ] (A) 2351 km (B) 4032 km
(A) d = ½ km (C) 6100 km (D) 5800 km
(B) d = 1 km (92) Considering the earth as a perfect sphere,
(C) d = ( 3 / 2) km calculate the fractional change in the
(D) d = 2 km weight of the object when it is taken to
(87) The value of acceleration due to gravity, the height of 64 km from the surface of
at earth surface is g. Its value at the centre the earth. Take the radius of the earth =
of the earth, which we assume as a sphere 6400 km.
of radius R and of uniform mass density, (A) 2 % (B) 3 %
will be : [AIIMS : 1997] (C) 4 % (D) 1 %
(A) 10 R m / s 2
(B) zero
(93) The angular speed of earth in rad/s, so that
(C) 5 R m / s (D) 20 R m / s 2
bodies on equator may appear weightless
(88) Taking the radius of the Earth as R; at is : [ Use g = 10 m/s2 and the radius of
3
what height above its surface the value of earth = 6.4  10 km ] [AIIMS : 2011]
3 3
g will be half of its value on the surface ? (A) 1.25  10 (B) 1.56  10
(B) ( 2 _ 1 ) R
1
(A) 2 2 R (C) 1.25  10 (D) 1.56
(C) ( 2 _ 2)R (D) R (94) What should be the angular velocity of
(89) Weight of man at the Earth's surface is Earth's rotation about its own axis so that
0
500N. At what height from the Earth's the body at 45 lattitude at the Earth's
surface would it be 250 N ? surface becomes weightless. ( g =
(Radius of the Earth = 6400 km) gravitational acceleration at the Earth's
surface, R = radius of Earth)
(A) 2525 km (B) 2650 km
(C) 3200 km (D) 6400 km (A) 2g / R (B) g/R

(90) Weight of an object on surface of eath is (C) 3g / R (D) 4g / R

72 N. At the height of half of the radius (95) What would be the fictitious (pseudo) force
from surface, its weight will be ..... on the body lying on the equator of Earth
[NEET : 2000] in the radial direction away from the Earth’s
centre due to its rotation?
(A) 72 N (B) 28 N
A M eR e B M e2R e
(C) 10 N (D) 32 N
C M eR e2 D M e2R e2

Answer : (86) D (87) B (88) B (89) B (90) D (91) A (92) A (93) A (94) A (95) B
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Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It 37
(96) What would be the fictitious (pseudo) NOTE
acceleration of the body lying on the pole.
of Earth in the radial direction away from
the Earth’s centre due to its rotation?
A R e B  2R e
C  D 2R e2
(97) If the Earth suddenly stops rotating about
its own axis then what change in the value
of gravitational acceleration at the equator
will be found from that obtained during
its rotation ?
2
(A) Increases by Re
(B) Increases by 2Re
(C) Decreases by 2Re
2
(D) Decrease by Re
(98) What will be the effect on the weight of a
body placed on the surface of earth, if earth
suddenly stops rotating ? [AIIMS : 2014]
(A) No effect
(B) weight will increase
(C) weight will decrease
(D) weight will become zero
NOTE

Answer : (96) C (97) B (98) B

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 38 Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It

Hints & Solution (63)

 4 
g e =  G πR e  ρ
(60)  3 
 According to Newton’s law of
4
gravitation = 6.67 × 10–11 × × 3.14 × 6.37
3
GMm × 106 × 7.86 ×103
F=
R2 ge = 13.98 m/s2
and F = mg (64)
GMm GM m
 mg = 2 gm =
R R 2m
GM g m R 2m
g= 2 Mm =
R G
gR2 1.67  (1.74  106 )2
 M= =
G 6.67  10 –11
(62)
Mm = 7.5 × 1022 kg
 Gravitational force between particle of
(65)
mass m and planet
Gm G4πR 3ρ
GMp m  g= 2 =
F= R 3R 2
 Dp / 2
2

4
= πGρR
3
4 GM p m
= ρ  g
D2p
(66)
 Acceleration due to gravity,
GM
F  g= 
a= R2
m
4GMp M M
= 2  Density d = =
Dp 
V 4 πR 3
3 
4 3
M= πR d.
3

4 3
 πR 
 g = G  2  d.
3
R

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Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It 39
4   gh = gd
= G  πRρ 
3 
 d  2h 
g  1–  = g  1– 
 gR  R  R
 d = 2h
g ' R'
=
g R (88)
 Gravitational acceleration on earth’s
g ' 3R
 = surface,
g R
GM e
 g' = 3g ge =
R2
Gravitational acceleration at a height h
(76)
from surface of earth,
 dg   dr 
 g  × 100% = –2  r ×100%  g=
GM e
   
(R+h)2
= –2 (0.5%)
= +1% g e (R+h)2
 =
g R2
Value of g increases by 1%.
(77) (R+h)2
2 =
1 R2
g 2 = r1
( )
2
 g  r2 
g1 r2 R+h
B ut r1 = Re and re = Re + 2Re = 3Re
 2=
R
g2
( )
2
Re
 = = 1  R ( 2 –1) = h
g1 3R e 9
_
g2 = 9.81 / 9 [ g1 = g = 9.81 ms 2] (89)
g2 = 1.09 m/s2 W1 mg g
 W2 m g' g'

g1 Gme (Re + h)2

(86)  
g2 Re2 GMe
 h = 1m
2
 2h  W1  Re + h 
 gh = g  1–    
 R W2  Re 

 d 500  h 
 gd = g  1–   1  
 R 250  R e 

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 40 Universal Constant of Gavitation  Gravitation Acceleration And Variations In It

h (94)
  2 –1
Re When effective g becomes zero, object
 h = 6400 × 0.414 become weightless.

h = 2650 Km g' = g – ω 2 R cos2 λ

(90) 0 = g – ω 2 R cos2 (45º )

 mg = F = 72 N. R (weight on the surface) 1
g = ω2 R 
GM 2
g=
R2 2g
ω=
At height, H = R/2 R
4 GM (97)
g' =
9 R2 From, g' = g– ω 2Re
4 GM If rotation stops ω = 0
mg' = m
9 R2
The value of g increases by ω2 R e .
4
= (mg)
9 NOTE
4
 (72)
9
= 32 N
(93)
For weightlessness

g
W
Re

 W=1.56 × 10–3

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Gravitational Intensity 41

6 Gravitational Intensity :  The gravitational intensity ( I ) due to it at
 The gravitational force on a body by the some point P is,
other one is given by Newton’s law of GMm
F= 2
gravitation. r
G m1 m2
F12 = F GM
r 2  I = =
m r2
 This process of action of force exerted
mutually on two bodies separated by some GM
 In magnitude we can write I = 2 (1)
distance is explained to occur through the r
Remember
field as under :
(1) Ev ery obj ect produces a gravitational  Its unit is N/kg or m/s .
2

field around it, due to its mass.  the dimensional formula is M0L1T-2.
(2) This field exerts a force on another body  Now if a body of mass m is put (or lying)
brought (or lying) in this field.Hence it is at this point P, the gravitational force exerted
important to know about the strength of by the field on it is
such a gravitational field.
  If I is given then use directly F = I m
 “The gravitational force exerted by the F=Im (2)
given body on a body of unit mass at a
 Equation (1) shows that the gravitational
given point is called the intensity of
gravitational field ( I ) at that point.” intensity due to earth at a point has the
same value as the gravitational accleration
Direction : 
In direction

of force, I is function of position
I= F/m at that point. But these two quantities
 It is also known as the gravitational field are different and their units are different
or gravitational intensity. but equivalent. [N/kg = m/s2]. It is obvious
 Using Newton’s law of gravitation we can that I  r graph for the Earth’s gravitational
write the formula for the gravitational field would be same as g  r graph like
intensity. Consider a body of mass M at
following figure.
the origin of co-ordinate system O.


r


I = GMe / r2 (Intensity at distance r due to earth)

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 42 Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field
::: Short Explanation ::: 7 Gravitational Potential and
Gravitational intensity (I) : Gravitational Potential
 Every mass m produces gravitational field
Energy in the Earth’s
around it.
Gravitational Field :
 This gravitational field intensity is given

 7.1 (a) Gravitational Potential :
by the equation I = F .  Every object produces a gravitational field
m around it. A characteristic of such a field is
Means, the intensity of the gravitational
defined as a quantity called the gravitational
field of a material body at any point in its potential as under :
field is defined as the gravitational force 7.1.1 “The negative of the work done by the
experienced by a unit mass placed at that gravitational force in bringing a unit
point. Actually, I = GM/r 2 due to mass from infinite distance to the given
attractional force. Hence I  r
GM point in the gravitatinal field is called
I= graph is in 4th quadrant. See
 ( )
gravitational potential () at that
r2 sloved pro. 99. But in option if
graph is not given in 4th quadrant, point.” scaler quantity
then considered above graph  The unit of gravitational potential is J kg-1
where which represent only magnitude. square of unit of velocity (m2/s2)
M = magnitude of mass which produces  dimensional formula is M0L2T-2.
gravitational field intensity.
7.1.2 Formula
r = distance between a point where we
want to find I and the mass that
produces gravitational field
   
 Direction of I = direction of F dr = dr r

 Direction of I is in the direction of mass M

 F so it is also termed as gravitational
 I 
M  We put the origin of the co-ordinate system
acceleration g. at the centre of the Earth.
 I produced due to earth is,  Mass of the Earth is Me
g  Radius is Re.
I = g = e r ( for r  R  The position vector of point P at distance
Re e
 
GM e r from the center of the Earth is OP = r.
I = ge = ( for r = Re Here, r Re.
R 2e
 At this point the Earth’s gravitational force
GM e
and I = g = ( for r  Re on a body of unit mass is
r2  GMe(1) 
F= r
r2
( ) I = ( GMe / r2 ) is intensity due to earth at  GMe 
F= r (1)
distance r. r2
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Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field 43
 This force is not constant but changes with The negative of this work ( W r ) is by
distance. But during an infinitely small definition, called the gravitational potential
displacement dr the force can be taken as  at point P,
constant. Hence, during such a small  gravitational potential at P is,
displacement, the work done by the GMe each mass particle
= = gr (6) produce gr. field and
gravitational force is r
gr. potential around it.
  GMe 
dW = F . d r =
GMe
( r 2 )
r  (dr r) (2)  From this the gravitational potential at the
(3) Earth’s surface (putting r = Re ) is,
dW = dr
r2 GMe
(7) =  0.63 x 10 J/kg
8

 The entire path from point P to infinite e= R also becomes  ge Re

e
distance can be divided in large number of  We note a few points about the gravitational
infinitely small intervals. potential :
 Taking the force as constant during every
(1) The gravitational potential at infinite
such interval, we can calculate the work
distance from the center of the Earth = 0
done during that interval, and by adding all
In equation (6) by taking r = , will be zero
such works we get the total work W.
 As this process is a continuous one, the (2) The graviatational potential at all points
summation can be written as integration. inside a uniform spherical shell is the same,
 Hence, in this case, work done by the and is equal to the value at the surface that
gravitational force in moving this body from is, equal to GM/R. where, M = mass of
point P at distance r to infinite distance is the shell and R = radius of the shell.
 
Wr  = dW = = _
r r
(GM e
r2 )
dr
In Std. -12, Ch.-1,2 discussion of electric field
& electric potential produce due to electric
charge, you will derive different formula on
 different shape of electric charge particle for
= _GMe 1 dr distribution and you will get I &  for gravition.
2
r r
  The reason for this is that the gravitational
= _GMe _  
1
r
r
= +GMe  _ r
1
 1
 force at all points inside the shell is zero,
hence no work is done in the motion of
GMe r r -1 -1 (4) the body inside the shell. The work during
Wr = = =
r  -1 r the motion from infinite distance to surface
 Now, if we bring this body from infinite only comes in the calculation.
distance to the point P at distance r; the (3) The variation in the gravitational potential
work (W  r )by the gravitational force with distance r from the centre of the shell,
will be the same as that given by equation having mass M and radius R is shown in
(4) but with opposite sign. following figure For shell :
outside,  (GM/distance)
on the surface,  (GM/radius)
 [ Wr = _ Wr ], because gravitational inside,  (GM/radius)

force is a conservative force.

GM e In a closed path total
 Wr = (5) work will be zero
r

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 44 Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field

Extra MCQ  The absolute value of the potential energy

For shell (or potential) has no importance at all, only
the change in its value is important. Hence
Gm GM the reference point for zero potential energy
P = + a
a
(or zero potential) can be taken anywhere.( )
Gm GM
Q = +  Here the potential energy U is of the system
R R
Gm GM consisting of the Earth and the body. But
S = +
r R in this process the position of Earth or its
velocity is not appreciably changed, hence
it is also conventionally mentioned as the
7.2 (b) Gravitational Potential Energy potential energy of the body. Whenever
 “The negative of the work done by the
such a mention is made we have to
gravitational force in bringing a given
body (of mass m) from infinite distance understand that this potential energy is
to the given point in the gravitational actually of that system but the entire change
field is called the gravitational potential in that potential energy appears to be
energy U of that body at that point.”
experienced by the body alone.
(Scaler quantity)
 It is actually the gravitational potential Note In future, we are also going to consider
energy of the system of the Earth + that a satellite. In that case the potential
body. energy is of the system consisting of
 Considering definitions of gravitational the Earth and the satellite. But we shall
potential, gravitational potential energy and mention it as potential energy of the
GMe
using equation  = r
(1) satellite.
( ) You may recall that in the chapter of ‘Work
the gravitational potential energy of a body Energy and Power’ we had taken zero potential
of mass m at a distance r from the Earth’s energy at the surface of the Earth, while here
center (r  Re ) is, we have taken zero potential energy at infinite
GMem distance. But in both the cases only the
U = m = r
(2)
changes are important hence no contradiction
 Hence the gravitational potential energy of is produced.
the body of mass m, lying on the surface (1) If the distance between m1 and m2 is r12 ,
of the Earth (r  Re ) is, then gravitational potential energy
GMem  mgeRe U12 = Gm1m2 / r12.
Ue = (3)
Re (2) If the system is madeup of 5 particles
 We can also say that the gravitational U = U12 + U13 + U14 + U15 + U23 + U24
potential is the gravitational potential energy + U25 + U34 + U35 + U45
of unit mass. = Do the sum of potential energy of
 At infinite distance from the centre of the all pairs in the system.
Earth the gravitational force of the Earth on (3) To bright an object of mass m to height
that body is zero and according to the above of nRe from earth’s surface change in
definition we can say that its gravitational gravitational potential energy
potential energy is also zero. (r =  U = 0) U = mgRe [( n / ( n + 1 )].
See Solved problem : 112 to 114, 38, 2
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Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field 45
(b) Gravitational potential energy : 1 1
 Gravitational potential energy due to a U (r2)– U (r1) = G m1 m2  – 
 r1 r2 
conservative forces of any system is
In gravitational field of mass M , a particle of
defined as, mass m is moving from r1 and r2 distance ( where
f
 r1 & r2 are distance from centre of mass M )

Uf  Ui = W = F . dr then change in gravitational potenttial energy
i U = GMm [ ( 1 / r1 )  ( 1 / r2 ) ]
i.e. change in potential energy
 If zero of potential energy is taken when
= negative amount of work done by
two particles are at infinite distance then,
internal conservative force.
change is potential when they are r
Illustration : (gravitatioan potential energy) distance apart is,
 1 1 Gm1 m 2
U(r) – U (  ) = G m1 m2  –  =–
 r r

Movable  the gravitational potential energy of a

Stationary
system of two particles placed at a distance
r, is
 Internal conservative force (gravitational G m1 m 2
force ) from above figure is, U (r) = – .
r
Gm1m2  When particles are closer, potential energy
F= ( towards m1 )
r2 decreases and when they go away from
each other, potential energy increases.
 Now, if m2 is moved slightly from A to
( The work done by external force which
B, then small amount of work done by
doesn’t result into kinetic energy always
gravitational force,
Gm 1m 2 converted into potential energy )
dW =  dr  If system comprises of more than two
r2
particles then add the potential energy of
 So the increase in potential energy of
all possible pairs.
the system of two body, during the
movement, is Notes
G m1 m2
dU =  dW= dr
r2
 Now if the distance between two particles
is changed from r1 to r2 then change in
potential energy,
r2
G m1 m2
U(r2)  U(r1) = dU = dr
r1
r2
r2
1
= G m1 m2 
r r1

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 46 Gravitational Intensity  Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field

Solved Problems (101) The gravitational intensity at a point is

  
(99) Dependence of intensity of -9
I = 10 ( i + j ) N/kg. If a body of 10
gravitational field(E) of earth with kg mass is placed at this point, find
distance(r) from centre of earth is
the magnitude of force on it and the
correctly represented by [PMT : 2014]
magnitude of its acceleration.
(A) (B)
( ) Obtained T for  = 450 lattitude
Re
Answer will be, T = 2 g
Solution:
  9  
 F = ( I ) (m) = ( 10 ) ( i + j ) (10)
(C) (D) 8  8 
= 10 i + 10 j N

8 8
 |F| = (10 )2 + (10 )2
8 8
= 10 2 = 1.414  10 N

| F | 1.414  108 9
 g= m = 10 = 1.414  10 m/s2
(102) The gravitational intensity at the
(100) Which of the following graph shows centre of a hemispherical shell of
the variation in the gravitational uniform mass density has the direction
intensity I with distance from the indicated by the arrow (see Figure )
centre of a spherical shell with uniform
(i) a, (ii) b, (iii) c, (iv) 0.
density and radius R.
(A) (B) Q

Solution :
(C) (D)
 If the shell is completely spherical intensity
inside the shell is zero at every point.
So intensity due to lower hemispherical
shell, is in downward direction and intensity
due to upper hemispherical shell is in
upward direction. So resultant intensity
inside the shell becomes zero.
Ans : (99) A (100) B (102) C
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Gravitational Intensity  Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field 47
(103) For the above problem, the direction  gravitational potential at distance r
of the gravitational intensity at an from the centre of the Earth.
arbitrary point P is indicated by the GMe
in = _ equal ( _ GMe
arrow (i) d, (ii) e, (iii) f, (iv) g. r

  1
r
2 r
Q in = 1 , r1 = Re 1 = e and
1 r2
r2 = 2Re
Re e
 2 = e  =
2R e 2
(106) If the Earth shrinks (but not cut !) in
such a way that its radius becomes
(104) The magnitudes of the gravitational
(Re/2) from Re, what can we say about
field at distance r 1 and r 2 from the
the values of gravitational potential ,
centre of a uniform sphere of radius R
and mass m are F1 and F2 respecitvely. at a point at distance R e from its
Then... [IIT : 1994] centre in the two cases ?
(A) the values of g and  both become
F r
(A) 1 = 1 if r1 < R and r2 < R half.
F 2 r2
F 1 r 22 (B) the value of g becomes half and
(B) F = r 2 if r1 > R and r2 > R the value of  remains the same as
2 1
before.
F 1 r1
(C) = if r1 > R and r2 > R (C) the value of g remains the same as
F 2 r2
before and the value of  becomes
F 1 r 12
(D) = if r1 < R and r2 < R half.
F 2 r 22
(D) the values of g and  both remain
Solution : [Ans. (A,B)] the same as before.
Solution : [Ans. (D)]
(105) If the gravitational potential at the
 Here g = GM / r2 and  = GM / r. M, G
Earth’s surface is  e , what is the
and r = Re distance are same, so the value
gravitational potential at a height from
of g and  remains constant does not
Earth’s surface equal to its radius?
changes.
A e / 2 B e / 4
Here it is not asked for surface , but asked
C e D e / 3 at distance Re.
Solution : [Ans. (A)]

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 48 Gravitational Intensity  Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field

(107) A particle of mass m is placed on each  The gravitational potential at the center, due
vertex of a square of side l as shown to each particle is same.
in figure. Calculate the gravitational  The total gravitational potential at the center
potential energy of this system of four of the square is
particles. Also calculate the
 = 4 (potential due to every particle)
gravitational potential at the center of
the square. ( ) Gm
=4
r

4 2 Gm
 = by putting r = l / 2
l
(108) Each object of mass 3 kg is placed on
Ans : x-axis at distances 1m, 2m, 4m, 8m,
 Here we can write the potential energy due ...... upto  from the origin of
to every pair of particles as coordinate system. Find the
Gmi mj gravitational intensity at the origin in
Ui j = , where mi and mj are the terms of the gravitational constant G.
ri j
[ Form a similar example for gravita-
masses of particles i and j respectively, and
tional potential by yourself and solve
r i j is the distance between them.
it. See CTP-121, P.no. - 49 ]
mi = mj = m.
Solution :
 Total potential energy
( )
U = U12 + U13 + U14 + U23 + U24 +U34 Origin

1 1 1 1 1 1 From fig. gravitational intensity at point O,

= Gm 2
 Gm Gm Gm Gm
r 12 r 13 r 14 r 23 r 24 r I= 2 + 2 + 2 + 2
34
r1 r2 r3 r4
1 1 1 1 1 1 Gm Gm Gm Gm
= Gm2  = 2 + 2 + 2 + 2  ...
l l 1 2 4 8
2l l 2l l
G(3) G(3) G(3) G(3)
= + + +  ...
4+ 2 1 4 16 64
 = Gm 2
l 1 1 1 1 
= 3G  + + +  ...
Here,r13 = r24 = 2l 1 4 16 64 
a 1
 r12 = r14 = r23 = r34 = r = l Sn  Here a = 1, r =
1– r 4
( ) If n particles are in system then, no. of pair  
n n(n1)  1  4
will be ( 2 ) =  I= 3G    3G  
2 1 3  I = 4G
1– 
 4
( ) Add P.E. for each pair containing in the systems.
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Gravitational Intensity  Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field 49
(109) At points inside a uniform spherical Solution :
shell........
(A) gravitational intensity and  Potential energy of 12 pairs like AB
gravitational potential both are zero _Gm2
(B) gravitational intensity and gravi- U1 = 12 (1)
a
tational potential both are non-zero  Potential energy of 12 pairs like AF
(C) gravitational intensity is non zero _Gm2
and gravitational potential is zero U2 = 12 (2)
(D) gravitational intensity is zero and 2a
gravitational potential is non-zero
 Potential energy of 4 pairs like AG
Solution : [Ans. (D)] _Gm2
(110) A particle of mass M is situated at U3 = 4 (3)
3a
the centre of a spherical shell of same
 Potential energy of 8 pairs like AO
mass and radius a. The gravitational _G (m)(2m)
potential at a point situated at a/2 U4 = 8 (4)
distance from the centre, will be ( 3 / 2)a
.............. ( Take mass of shell also M )
 Total potential energy of a system.
[ NEET : 2010 ]
3GM 2GM U = U1 + U2 + U3 + U4
(A)  a (B)  a

(C) 
Solution :
GM
a
(D) 
4GM
a
U =
_Gm2
a [ 12 (1 +
1
2
)+
36
3 ]
Potential at the given point 16 Gm
 =_
= potential due to shell 3 a
+ potential due to particle. (112)If a body of mass m on the Earth's
_ GM _ 3GM
2GM
= a
 a
= a surface is taken to a height equal to nR
(111) Calculate the gravitational potential from the surface; what would be the
and gravitational potential energy at change in its potential energy ? (R =
the centre of the cube made up of radius of the earth g = gravitational
9 masses , shown in the figure. acceleration at the earth's surface.)
mgR
H q G (A) (B) mgR ( n _ 1 )
m q
m (n_1)
q
m q
m n
E F (C) mgR n + 1 (D) mgR ( n + 1 )
2m
-2q
 O Solution :
q
m q
m
Potential energy at surface of earth
D C
q
m q
m – GMm
A B U1 =
a R
Answer : (110) A (112) C
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 50 Gravitational Intensity  Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field
Potential energy at height nR from surface (114) A body of mass m is placed on earth's
of earth surface. It is then taken from earth's
surface to a height h = 3R, then the
– GMm U = GMm [(1/r1)  (1/r2)]
U2 = change in gravitational potential
R+nR can be directly used.
energy is.... [2002]
– GMm
= mgh 2
(n + 1)R (A) (B) mgR
R 3
Change in potential energy U2–U1
3 mgR
(C) 4 mgR (D)
– GMm  GMm  2
= –   Solution :
(n + 1) R  R 
GMm  1  1 1
= 1 –  ΔU = GMm  – 
R  n +1 
 r1 r2 
GMm  n  Where r1 = R, r2 = 4R
=  
R  n +1 
1 1 
 n  GM ΔU = GMm  – 
= gmR    = gR  R 4R 
 n +1  R

(113) If 'g' is the acceleration due to gravity 3 GMm 3 GM

= = mgR  g = 2
on the earth's surface., the gain in the 4 R 4 R
potential energy of an object of mass (115) Two objects of mass m and 4m are
'm' raised from the surface of the earth placed at distance r. What is the
to a height equal to the radius 'R' of gravitational potential on the line
the earth is ............ [AIEEE : 2004] joining of these objects at a point
where gravitational field is zero.
(A) ¼ mgR (B) ½ mgR
[AIEEE : 2011]
(C) 2mgR (D) mgR _ 4Gm
(A) zero (B) r
Solution : _ GMm _ 9Gm
ΔU = U 2 – U1 (C) r (D) r
Solution :
1 1
ΔU = GMm  – 
 r1 r2 

1 1  GMm
ΔU = GMm  –  =  At point P resultant gravitational field
 R 2R  2R
becomes zero.
1 Gm for that g1 = g2
ΔU = mgR g = 2
2 R
Gm1 Gm 2

Answer : (113) B (114) C (115) D r12 r22
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Gravitational Intensity  Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field 51
m 4m height h from the surface of the earth.

x2 (r–x )2 GM
g ....(ii)
( r – x )2  4 x 2 ( R  h )2

r – x  2x From Equation (i) and (ii),

x r/3 
=R+h
2r g
 r1 = r 3 or r2 =
3
5.4  107
Total gravitational potential at point P   Rh
6
 – Gm1   – Gm2   h = 2600 km
p    
 r1   r2 

–Gm G(4m) (117) Choose any one of the following four

 – responses :
r / 3 2r / 3
(A) If both Assertion and Reason are
–3Gm 6 Gm
= – true and reason is the correct
r r
explanation of the Assertion.
Gm (B) If both Assertion and Reason are
 p = –9
r true but Reason is not a correct
(116) At what height from the surface of explanation of the Assertion.
earth the gravitation potential and the (C) If Assertion is true but Reason is
value of g are – 5.4 × 107 J kg–2 and false
6.0 ms–2 respectively ? Take the radius (D) If both Assertion and Reason are
of earth as 6400 km : [ NEET : 2016] false.
(A) 1600 km (B) 1400 km Assertion :
(C) 2000 km (D) 2600 km By taking a body away from the Earth
Solution : the potential energy of the system of
Gravitational potential Earth and that body increases.
Reason :
 = – 5.4 × 107 J kg–2
To increase the separation between
Gravitational Acceleration g = 6 ms–2 them, work has to be done by applying
Gravitational potential at some height h external force against the attractive
from the surface of the earth, force between them.
(A) A (B) B (C) C (D) D
GM
 =– ........(i)
R+h
and acceleration due to gravity at some

Answer : (117) A
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 52 Gravitational Intensity  Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field

(118) An object of mass m placed at a point Current Topic Practice

B in the gravitational field of mass M.
(119) 10 kg, 20 kg and 10 kg point masses are
If this object is taken from point B and
placed on the respective vertices B, C and
moving towards point A in the D of a ractengle. If AB = 4 cm and
gravitational filed then gravitational BC = 3 cm then calculate the gravitational
potential energy is .......... . potential at the vertex A.
_11 2
(A) remains constant G = 6.67  10 Nm2 / kg
(B) increases
(C) decreases
(D) becomes zero
Solution :
In the attractive field, potential energy
decreases.

Notes

(120) 10 kg, 10 kg, 20 kg and 30 kg masses

are placed on the respective vertices A,
B, C and D of a square ABCD having
length of its side 2 m. Calculate the
gravitational potential and gravitational
potential energy at the center of the
_11 2
square. G = 6.67  10 Nm2 / kg

Answer : (118) C
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Gravitational Intensity  Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field 53
(121) From the origin of a co-ordinate system (125) Infinite number of bodies, each of mass
a mass m is placed at each point with 2 kg are situated on x-axis at distance
x =1, 2, 4, 8, 16, ........ ( upto infinity ) 1m, 2m, 4m, 8m, ... , respectively, from
distances, what is the gravitational the origin. The resulting gravitational
potential at the origin ? potential due to this system at the origin
(A)  2 Gm (B)  4 Gm will be .............. [ NEET : 2013 ]

(C)  2 / Gm (D)  4 / Gm (A)  4 G (B)  4G

3
(122) Which of the following alternatives
(C)  G (D)  8 G
represents the dimensional formula of the 3
gravitational potential and gravitational (126) Energy required to move a body of mass

potential energy respectively? m from an orbit of radius 2R to 3R is

1 1 _1 1 2 _2 [AIEEE : 2002]
A MLT , MLT
0 2 _2 1 2 _2
2 2
B MLT , MLT (A) GMm / 12R (B) GMm / 3R
0 2 _2 1 2 (C) GMm / 8R (D) GMm / 6R
C M L T , M L T2
1 2 _1 2 1 _1 (127) As you have learnt in the text, a
D MLT , MLT
geostationary satellite orbits the earth at
(123) A body of mass 'm' is taken from the
a height of nearly 36,000 km from the
earth's surface to the height equal to twice
surface of the earth. What is the potential
the radius (R) of the earth. The change
due to earth’s gravity at the site of this
in potential energy of body will be :
satellite ?
[NEET : 2013]
( Take the potential energy at infinity to
(A) 3 mgR (B) 1/3 mgR
be zero ).
(C) 2 mgR (D) 2/3 mgR
Mass of the earth = 6.0  1024 kg,
(124) A particle of mass 10 g is kept on the
radius = 6400 km.
surface of a uniform sphere of mass
(128) Two heavy spheres each of mass 100
100 kg and radius 10 cm. Find the work
kg and radius 0.10 m are placed 1.0 m
to be done against the gravitational force
apart on a horizontal table. What is the
between them to take the particle far
gravitational force and potential at the
away from the sphere
_11 2 mid point of the line joining the centres
Take G = 6.67  10 Nm /kg2
of the spheres ? Is an object placed at
[AIEEE : 2005]
_10 _10 that point in equilibrium? If so, is the
(A) 3.33  10 J (B) 13.34  10 J
_10 _9 equilibrium stable or unstable ?
(C) 6.67  10 J (D) 6.67  10 J
Ans : (121) A (122) B (123) D (124) C (125) B (126) D
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 54 Gravitational Intensity  Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field
(129) Dependence of intensity of gravitational Hints & Solutions
field(E) of earth with distance(r) from
centre of earth is correctly represented (119)
m2 m3
by [NEET : 2014]
 = G  mr 1
+
r2
+
r3

(A) (B) 1

(120)
 = G  mr 1
+
m2
r
m m
+ 3+ 4
r r

(C) (D) (121)
_
  = Gm [ 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + ... ]
1 2 4 8 16
a
S= _
1 r
_ 1
 = Gm _
1 ½
_
Notes  = 2Gm

(122)
 Gravitational potential Energy Mass
1 2 _2 1
  M L T / M
0 2 _2
M L T
and gravitational potential Energy U = m
0 2 _2 1 0 0 1 2 _2
=(MLT )(MLT) =MLT

(123)

1 1
ΔU = GMm  – 
 r1 r2 
Where r1 = R
r2 = 3R

2 GM
ΔU = mgR g =
3 R2

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Gravitational Intensity  Gravitational Potential and Gravitational Potential Energy in the Earth’s Gravitational Field 55
(124) (128)
Work done = Potential Energy of System
GMm
=
r

6.67 × 10 –11 × 100 × 10 × 10 –3  Gravitational field at P due to sphere A,

= –2
10 × 10
 GM G (100)
W = 6.67 × 10–10 J E1 = 2
= (Along PA
r (0.5)2
(125)
 Gravitational field at P due to sphere B,
– GM
Gravi tati onal Potenti al  =
R  GM G (100)
E2 = = (Along PB
The resulting gravitational potential, r2 (0.5)2
1 1 1 1   Both fields are equal and opposite so
V=–2G  + + + +....
1 2 4 8  resultant gravitational field at P is Zero.
 1 1 1  Hence at that point gravitational force on
= – 2 G 1 + + 2 + 3 +....
 2 2 2  particle having mass m is F = Im = 0
–1  Total potential at point P
 1
= – 2 G 1 + 
 2   = 1 + 2

–2G – 2G GM GM 2 GM
= = = – 4G =– – =–
 1 1/2 r r r
1– 
 2 2  6.67  10 –11  100
=–
(126) Energy required to increase the orbital 0.5
radius of satellite is, = – 2.668 × 10 J kg–1
–8

 By slightly shifting a particle of mass m

1 1
ΔU = GMm  –  = GMm  – 
1 1
from point P to left ( or right ) side, then
 r1 r2   2R 3R 
due to increasing force in that direction. It
GMm will moves continuosly left side, ( Right
ΔU =
6R side ). It will not return to P point, so particle
(127) of mass m can be consider as in unstable
Gravitational Potential at Height h
equilibrium.
 = – GM ( r = R e + h )
r

6.67 × 10 –11 × 6 × 1024

=–
4.24 × 107
= – 9.43 × 106 J kg–1
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 56 Escape Energy and Escape Speed

8 Escape Energy and Escape  In this condition the body ecapes from the
Speed : binding with the Earth forever and does not
 If we throw a stone upwards with our hand, return back. ( )
it goes to a certain height and then falls  “The minimum energy to be supplied
back towards the Earth. If we throw it with to the body to make it free from Earth’s
larger and larger initial speed we can send gravitational field (in other words from
it to greater and greater heights. From this binding with the Earth) is called the
a natural question may arise : can we throw ecape energy of that body.” It is often
the stone with such an initial speed that it called binding energy of the body.
does not return back to Earth? It means, it  Thus, the escape energy of the body of
goes to infinite distance from Earth forever mass m lying on the surface of the Earth
and then there is no attraction on it by Earth. GM em
To get the answer let us consider its energy. escape energy = (1)
Re
 Total energy -ve  Object Bound  The minimum speed to be given to the body
 Total energy zero (free) (steady) to give the kinetic energy equal to its escape
 Total energy +ve free (possess energy) energy is called the escape speed (ve ) which
In motion (1/2 mv2) is often called the escape velocity also.
   Formula GM em
 1 mve2 =
 The gravitational potential energy of a body  2 Re
of mass m lying on the Earth’s surface 2GM e 2GMe Re
GMem  Escape speed v = =
e
Re R e2
is = and its kinetic energy is zero.
Re OR (2)
GMem
So its total enegy is = Re ve= 2gRe (3)
GMem
 If we supply energy to this body OR ve = G Re (For surface only)
 2
Re
Put g = GMe / Re2
in the form of kinetic energy, then it can go
   Understanding
upto a point where its total energy becomes
 From eqn. (2) it is clear that the escape
+GM em GMem speed (ve) of the body does not depends
+ = 0.
Re Re on its own mass.( ) does not depends on
 It means, it will go to infinite distance from direction of projection.
the Earth and there its potential energy is  By putting the values of G , Me and Re in
zero and kinetic energy is also zero. equation (2), we get ve = 11.2 km/s.
( ) If we give kinetic energy more than  If the initial speed of the body is equal to
( GMem / Re ) to the body then at infinite or greater than its escape speed (ve), it will
distance its potential energy becomes zero but
it has still certain kinetic energy remaining escape from the gravitational field of Earth
with it. forever. If the launching pad is at height h
( ) But depends on the mass and radius of the other from surface of earth. ve = 2GMe / (Re+h)
body from the binding of which it has to escape.
which is less than 11.2 km/s.
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Escape Energy and Escape Speed 57
   Moon Note for escape speed
 If we throw a body of mass m from surface
 The speed required for the body lying on
of earth with initial speed u, then its total
the surface of moon, to make it free from initial energy
the moon’s gravitation is ve' then 1 GM e m
E i = mu 2 + –
2 Re
2GM m  If its final velocity at height h from the
ve' = surface of the earth is v, then final energy is
Rm
1 2 GM em
Ef mv –
 where Mm = mass of the moon, 2 Re h
 According to law of conservation of M.E.
 Rm = radius of the moon.
1 2 GM em 1 2 GM em
 In that case ve' = 2.3 km/s which is nearly mv – mu –
2 Re h 2 Re
(1/5) times the escape speed at the Earth’s 1 1 GM em  GM e m
 mv 2 =  mu 2 – + ... ...(i)
surface. 2 2 Re  Re + h
 Moon has no atmosphere because of this  Total energy of system of any particle and
earth is negative, a particle is binding with
reason. If the gas molecules are formed on
earth. If same positive total energy is given
its surface then at the temperature prevailing to particle, it will never come back to earth.
there, those molecules have speeds greater equation (i)
than the above mentioned value. Hence,  According to
they escape the gravitational field of the 1 GM e m 1 2 GM e m
mu 2 – = 0 & 2 mv = R + h
moon forever. 2 Re e

From, ve = (8/3)GR2  So h is increasing and v is decreasing & at

   Black Hole the end infinite height ( h = infinite ) v = 0
( )


 If the density of a body is so high that the  A particle is projected against gravitational
field will never come back to earth till the
escape speed (ve ) at its surface is  velocity
velocity become zero.
of light C, then nothing will be able to
1 2 GM e m
escape from its surface forever (not even If 2 mu – Re
0,
light! ) Such a body is called black hole.  Then ½mv2 never (at any height) becomes
 We have to remember that no meterial zero and body will never come back to
earth so, to escape body, from earth
particle can have velocity greater than or
forever, minimum initial velocity should be
equal to the velocity of light c = 3  108m/s 2GM e
u , the minimum value of u is
Re
2GM e
escape speed, ve
Re
 Here, we are neglected effect of other
planets and starts. If v < ve a particle is
( ) If density is more then mass is more so v is reached other planet or space satellite due
more from mass = volume  density to its attraction force.
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 58 Escape Energy and Escape Speed

Solved Problems (133)If the densities of two planet are 1 and



(130) Does the escape speed of a body from and radii are R1 and R2 respectively,

2
the earth depend on (a) the mass of the the ratio of the escape speed of the
body, (b) the location from where it is particle on their surface is v1 / v2 = ..........
projected, (c) the direction of projection,
R1

R1

(d) the height of the location from where (A) 1
(B)  1
2 R

the body is launched ? 2 R 2
2

Solution :
2 2 2
R1 R1
 
 (A) No, (B) Yes, (C) No, (D) Yes (C)  1
(D) 1
2 2
2 R R22

 ve does not depend on mass of body which 2 2

is projected and also not depend on

direction of projection. It depend on place
Solution :
from which body launched and potential
energy =  GMem / (Re + h ) it depends on  Escape speed of a planet having radius R1
location from which body is launched. 2GM
v1 =
(131) The Earth retains its atmosphere R1
because ............
(A) the value of the escape energy is 4
2G × π R13ρ1
less than the average kinetic 3 8πGρ1R12
= 
energy of atmospheric molecules. R1 3
(B) the value of the escape energy is  Escape speed of a planet having radius R2
more than the average kinetic
energy of atmospheric molecules. 8πGρ2 R 22
v2 =
(C) the Earth rotates 3
(D) the Earth is spherical
v ρ1R12
(132)The escape velocity on the surface of  1 =
v2 ρ1R 22
a planet is ve. What would be the escape
velocity on the planet having the same (134) Choose any one of the following four
radius but mass 4 times that of it. responses :
(A) 2 ve (B) 4 ve (C) ve (D) ve / 2 A If both Assertion and Reason are true
Solution : and reason is the correct explanation
of the Assertion.
2GM
 Escape velocity on planet v e = B If both Assertion and Reason are true
R
but Reason is not a correct explanation
 Escape velocity on big planet v 'e =
2G(4M) of the Assertion.
R
C If Assertion is true but Reason is false
2GM D If both Assertion and Reason are false.
 v 'e = 2  v 'e = 2ve
R Ans : (131) B (132) A (133) C

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Escape Energy and Escape Speed 59
Assertion  Final mechanical energy of satellite
Moon has no atmosphere. – GMm
Reason Ef =
2rf
If the gas-molecules are formed on the
surface of moon, the average kinetic 1  – GMm 
=  
2  3R 
energy of the molecule at the
temperature prevailing there, is just GMm
Ef = –
equal to their potential energy. 6R
(A) A (B) B (C) C (D) D  Minimum energy required to launch satellite
(135)The kinetic energy needed to project a = Ef – E i
body of mass m from the earth surface GMm  1
= 1 – 
(radius R) to infinity is [AIEEE : 2002] R  6
(A) mgR / 2 (B) 2mgR 5 GMm
=
(C) mgR (D) mgR / 4 6 R
Solution : (137) Gravitational acceleration on the
 Required kinetic energy for the body on
6
GMm surface of a planet is g. where g is
the earth, = 11
R the gravitational acceleration on the
GM m surface of the earth. The average mass
= (R )
R2 2
density of the planet is times that
= mgR 3
of the earth. If the escape speed on the
(136) What is the minimum energy required
surface of the earth is taken to be
to launch a satellite of mass m from
11 km/s, the escape speed on the surface
the surface of a planet of mass M and
of the planet in km/s will be .........
radius R in a circular orbit at an
[IIT : 2010]
altitude of 2R? [ AIEEE : 2013 ]
(A) 1 (B) 2
(A) 5GmM / 6R (B) 2GmM / 3R (C) 3 (D) 4
(C) GmM / 2R (D) GmM / 3R Solution :
Solution :
 v= 2gR
 Initial mechanical energy of satellite
Ei = Ki + U i vP gP R
= × P ... ... ...(1)
GM m v g R
=0+ –
ri

– GMm
Ei =
R
Ans : (134) C (135) C (136) A (137) C
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 60 Escape Energy and Escape Speed
Escape energy
gP 6  centripetal force = gravitational force
= given ... ... ...(2) mv
2
GM em
ge 11 =
r r
2

4 GM em
ρe g 
 μUse πGρR ½ mv =
2
(K)
3
2r
RP GM em
& get ... ... ...(3)  potential energy = _ (-2K)
R r
From (1), (2), (3) get answer of vp  total energy,
= kinetic energy + potential energy.
(138) A satellite of 200 kg revolves around
GM em _ GM m
the Earth at a height of 1000 km from E= e
2r r
the surface of the Earth. Calculate its
(1) escape energy (2) escape speed of GM em
E= _ (-K)
this satellite. 2r
_11 24
Take G = 6.67  1011 Nm2/kg2, raidus _ (6.6710 )(610 ) (200)
E = 5
of the Earth = 6400 km and mass of 2 (74 10 )
_ 9
the Earth = 6  1024 kg. = 5.4  10 J
9
Solution :  binding energy B = 5.4  10 J
 m = 200 kg Escape Speed
h = 1000 km
9
5 2GMe 2(5.4  10 )
r = 7400 km = 74  10 m ve = =
24 Re+h 200
Me = 6 10 kg
5
Re = 6400 km = 64 10 m ( )
_
G = 6.67  10 11 MKS ve = 10.4 km/s
escape energy = ?
escape speed = ? (139) A satellite orbits the earth at a height
of 400 km above the surface. How
much energy must be expended to
h rocket the satellite out of the earth’s
gravitational influence ? Mass of the
Re satellite = 200 kg; mass of the earth =
6.0  1024 kg ; radius of the earth =
6.4  106 m ; G = 6.67  10–11 Nm2kg–2.
Solution :
 Total energy of the satellite in the orbit is,
–GMm
E =
( ) (Re + h) 2(R+h)
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Escape Energy and Escape Speed 61
 Putting this value in equation (1) and writing
=–
 6.67  10 –11   6  1024   200 
v = 3ve (given), we get,
2  6.4  106 + 400  103 
1 m(9v 2) + -ve2m 1
= – 5.89 × 109 J = mv'2
2 e
2 2
 Energy expended to rocket the satellite out
of the earth’s gravitational field  9ve2  ve2 = v'2  v' = ve n2 _ 1
where n = 3
= + 5.89 × 109 J
(140) For an object lying on the surface of  v'= 8 ve = ( 8 ) (11.2)
the Earth the escape speed is 11.2km/s. v' = 31.63 km/s
If an object on the Earth is thrown Note : In this que. if an object is lying at a height
away with a speed three times this equals to radius of the earth from the surface of
the earth. Then find its speed after it has escaped.
value, find its speed after it has escaped.
(19.4 km/s)
Solution :
(141) An object is allowed to fall freely
 From the gravitational field of the Earth towards the Earth from a distance
 The initial speed of the object = v = 3ve , r ( >Re ) from the center of the Earth.
where ve = escape speed = 11.2 km/s. Find the speed of the object when it
 Suppose the speed of this object after it strikes the surface of the Earth.
escaped from the Earth’s gravitational field Solution :
(that is at infinite distance) = v'.  Allowing the body to fall
 According to law of conservation of freely from distance r > Re,
from the centre of Earth, its
mechanical energy,
initial velocity is zero.
Kinetic energy +  Its kinetic energy = 0.
Kinetic energy +
potential energy potential energy -GMem
=  Its potential energy = r
at the Earth at infinite where m = mass of body.
surface distance
GMem  When it strikes the surface of the Earth, if its
 ½ mv + 2
= [ ½ mv' + 0 ]
2
velocity is v and the kinetic energy
Re
 (1) = ½ mv2,
-GMem
its potential energy here =
( at infinite distance potential en. = 0) Re
2GMe
But ve =
Re
Kinetic energy + Kinetic energy +
potential energy potential energy
GMe ve2 =
 = at distance r from at Earth’s surface
Re 2
Earth’s surface

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 62 Escape Energy and Escape Speed

 {0 +(-GMr m )}= e
ve =
2GMe
(2)
Re
{ 2 ( R )}
1
mv +
GM m 2

e
e

 From eqn. (1) and (2)


2
v = 2GMe
 1  1
Re r  (1) v
= 1
ve 2
 v= 2GMe  R1  1r 
e
(143) Potential energy of a satellite having
mass m and rotating at a height of
 This gives the required speed v. 6.4  106 m from the earth centre is :
 To obtain the answer in terms of g, we [AIIMS : 2000]
write [write if it is asked] (A)  0.2 mg Re (B)  2 mg Re
GM e 2
(C)  0.5 mg Re (D)  mg Re
g= 2
 GMe = gRe
Re Solution :

2
v = 2g Re
2 1
Re 

1
r 
(2)  For total energy (Ans. : C)
(144) A satellite is in an orbit around the
 
v = 2g Re
2
( 1
Re

1
r ) ½
(3) earth. If its kinetic energy is doubled,
then [AIIMS-2014]
Note : if it falls freely from a very large (A) it will maintain its path
distance (r  ) from the Earth’ss (B) it will fall on the earth
surface then equations (1) and (2) will (C) it will rotate with a great speed
2GM e (D) it will escape out of earth's
give v = = 2gRe. This is gravitational field
Re
the same as the formula for the escape Solution :
speed.  Orbital speed, v0 = gr = GM e / r and
(142) Show that the ratio of the linear speed escape speed ve = 2gr
of a satellite revolving round the Earth  Now kinetic energy is doubled then speed
and remainig close to the surface of the becomes 2 times
Earth to the escape speed of an object
 So, particle will escape out of earth’s
lying on the Earth is equal to ( 1 / 2 ).
gravitational field.
Ans :
2
mv GM em
  2 where v = orbital velocity
Re Re
GM e
 v = (1)
Re
 The escape velocity on the surface of Earth
for a body (at rest) is given by Ans : (143) D (144) D
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Escape Energy and Escape Speed 63
(147) The addiational kinetic energy to be
(145) A satellite is revolving in a circular
provided to a satellire of mass m
orbit at a height 'h' from earth's surface
revolving around a planet of mass M
( radius of earth R : h << R ). The
to transfer it from a circular orbit of
minimum increase in its orbital velocity
radius R 1 to another of radius R 2
required, so that the satellite could
( R2 > R1 ) is : [AIIMS-2016]
escape from the earth's gravitational
1
field, is close to : ( Neglect the effect of (A) GmM  R1 2

R 22 
atmosphere ) [ JEE-2016 ] 1
1
(A) 2gR (B) gR (B) GmM  1 
R1 R2
(C) gR / 2 (D) gR ( 2  1) 1 1
Solution :
(C) 2GmM R  R
1
 2

 Orbital speed (D) ½GmM  R1 1
 1
R2 
GM GMR Solution :
vo  = = gR
R R2
GMm  GMm 
2GM 2GMR  Ef  Ei =   
 Escape speed ve  = = 2gR 2rf  2ri 
R R2

 Increase in speed = 2gR – gR GMm  1 1 

=   
2  ri rf 
= gR  2 –1 
(146) A satellite revolves around the earth (148) A satellite of mass m is in circular orbit
remaining quite close to the surface of of radius 3RE about earth ( mass of
the Earth. How much additional velocity earth ME , radius of earth RE ). How
should be given to it to make it free from much additional energy is required to
the binding of the Earth ? Near the transfer the satellite to an orbit of
_
Earth's surface take g = 10 ms 2 radius radius 9RE ? [ NEET - 2017 ]
of the earth Re = 6400 km.
GMEm GMEm
Solution : (A) (B)
3RE 18RE
 Orbital speed, v0 = gr and escape speed 3GMEm GMEm
(C) (D)
ve = 2gr 2RE 9RE
Extra speed is given to satelite, Solution :
= 2gr  gr = ( 2  1  gr
GMm  1 1 
= 0.414 5
(10)(64  10 )  U =   
2  ri rf 
= 331.2 m/s
can be directly used

Ans : (145) C (147) D (148) D

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 64 Escape Energy and Escape Speed

GM e m (150) A spaceship is stationed on Mars. How

 Total Energy of Satellite E = –
2r much energy must be expended on the
GM e m spaceship to launch it out of the
r = 3R E  E1 = –
6R E solar system ? Mass of the space ship
= 1000kg; mass of the sun = 2  1030kg;
GM e m
r = gR E  E 2 = – mass of mars = 6.4  1023 kg; radius of
18R E
mars = 3395 km; radius of the
orbit of mars = 2.28  10 8 km ;
 Required Additional Energy
G = 6.67  10-11 N m2 kg–2.
GM E m  GM E m  Solution :
ΔE = – –– 
18R E  6R E 

Satelite
2GM E m 3395 km
 ΔE = –
18R E
GM E m mass
ΔE =
9R E
(149)A body attains a height equal to the 2.28 × 1011

radius of the earth. The velocity of the

body with which it was projected is .......
[NEET-2001 ] Sun
GM 2GM
(A) (B)
R R
® r = 2.28 × 1011 + 3395 × 103
5 GM 3GM
(C) 4 R (D) R GMm
 E= –
Solution : 2r
 Total energy at surface of the earth = GMm
Total energy at maximum height.  Ee = +
2r
1 GMm 1 GMm
mv 2 – = m (0) 2 –
2 R 2 R+h
 At maximum height it has only potential
energy.

1 GMm GMm
mv 2 = –
2 R R+R

2GM 2GM GM
v2 = – v =
R 2R R
Ans : (149) A (151) C
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Escape Energy and Escape Speed 65
(151)Escape velocity from earth is Notes
11.2 km/s. Another planet of same
mass has radius 1/4 times of the earth.
What is the escape velocity from
another planet ? [ NEET : 2000 ]
(A) 11.2 km/sec (B) 44.8 km/sec
(C) 22.4 km/sec (D) 5.6 km/sec
Solution :
 From,

2GM
ve =
R
 If M is constant

1
ve 
R
 ve (planet) = 2 ve (earth) = 22.4 km/h

Notes

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 66 Escape Energy and Escape Speed

Current Topic Practice The escape velocity of a body from this

platform is fv e where v e is its escape
(152)The escape velocity of a sphere of mass velocity from the surface of the earth. The
m is given by (G = universal gravitational value of f is ..... [NEET-2006]
constant, Me = mass of the earth and Re = 1
1 1
radius of the earth) (A) 2 (B) (C) (D)
2 3 2
[NEET-2006 ]

GM e 2GM e (157) The ratio of the radii of two planets r1

(A) (B)
Re Re and r2 is k. The ratio of acceleration due
GM e to gravity on them is r. Then the ratio of
(C) 2Gm (D) 2 the escape velocities from them, will be:
Re Re
[AIIMS-1997]
(153)The escape velocity of a body depends
(A) r / k (B) k / r
upon mass as [AIEEE-2002]
(C) kr (D) kr
(A) m0 (B) m1 (C) m2 (D) m3
(158) The escape velocity from the earth is
(154) The velocity with which a projectile must
11.2 km/sec. The escape velocity from a
be fired so that it escapes earth’s gravitation
planet having twice the radius and the same
does not depend on :
mean density as the earth, is :
[AIIMS-2002]
[AIIMS-2001]
(A) mass of the earth
(A) 11.2 km/sec (B) 22.4 km/sec
(B) mass of the projectile (C) 15.00 km/sec (D) 5.8 km/sec
(C) radius of the projectile’s orbit
(159) The ratio of escape velocity at earth (ve)
(D) gravitational constant to the escape velocity at a planet (vp)
(155) The escape velocity of a body on the whose radius and mean density are twice
surface of the earth is 11.2 km/s. If the as that of earth is :
earth's mass increases to twice its present [ NEET : PHASE : 1 (2016)]
value and the radius of the earth becomes
(A) 1 : 2 2 (B) 1 : 4
half, the escape velocity would become...
(C) 1 : 2 (D) 1 : 2
[NEET-1997 ]
(160) The escape velocity from the surface of
(A) 44.8 km/sec (B) 22.4 km/sec
the earth is ve. The escape velocity from
(C) 11.2 km/sec (D) 5.6 km/sec
the surface of a planet whose mass and
(156) The earth is assumed to be a sphere of radius are three times those of the earth,
radius R. A platform is arranged at a will be ..... [NEET-1995 ]
height R from the surface of the earth.
(A) ve (B) 3ve (C) 9ve (D) 1/ 3ve

Ans : (152) B (153) A (154) B (155) B (156) B (157) D (158) B (159) A (160) A

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Escape Energy and Escape Speed 67
(161)For a satellite escape velocity 11 km/s. If (166) The escape velocity for a body projected
the satellite is launched at an anlge of 60
0 vertically upwards from the surface of
with the vertical, then escape velocity will earth is 11 km/s. If the body is projected
0
be [NEET-1989 ] at an angle of 45 with the vertical, the
(A) 11 km/sec (B) 11 3 km/sec escape velocity will be .........

11 [AIEEE-2003]
(C) km/sec (D) 33 km/sec
3 (A) 11 2 km/s
(162) The escape velocity of an object lying
(B) 22 km/s
on the surface of Earth is ve. If an object
on the earth is thrown away with a speed (C) 11 km/s
n time this value then prove that its (D) 11/ 2 km/s
speed after it has escaped from the (167) A planet in a distant solar system is
graviational field of the Earth is 10 times more massive than the earth and
v' = ve (n2 - 1) its radius is 10 times smaller. Given that
the escape velocity from the earth is
(163) For an object lying on the surface
11 km/s, the escape velocity from the
of the Earth, the escape speed is
surface of the planet would be
11.2 km/s. If the Jupiter becomes 318 [AIEEE-2008]
times heavier than that of Earth and the (A) 1.1 km/sec (B) 11 km/sec
radius of Jupiter becomes 11.2 time that (C) 110 km/sec (D) 0.11 km/sec
of Earth. Then find the escape speed of (168) Knowing that the mass of the moon is
an object from the Jupiter. ( 1 / 81 ) times that of earth and its radius
(164) For an object lying on the surface of the is (1/4) the radius of earth. If the escape
velocity at the surface of the earth is
Earth, the escape speed is 11.2 km/s. If
11.2 km/sec, then the value of escape
an object on the Earth is thrown away
velocity at the surface of the moon is :
with a speed two times this value, find its
[AIIMS-2000]
speed after it has escaped from the
(A) 2.5 km/sec (B) 0.14 km/sec
gravitational field of the Earth.
(C) 5 km/sec (D) 8 km/sec
(165) A space shuttle revolves in a circular orbit (169) A rocket is fired vertically with a speed
near the surface of the Earth. If it has of 5 km s1 from the earth’s surface. How
escaped from the gravitational field of the far from the earth does the rocket go
Earth how much more velocity to be before returning to the earth ? Mass of
given to the space shuttle? Radius of the the earth = 6.0  1024 kg; mean radius
Earth = 6400 km. g = 9.8 m/s2 of the earth = 6.4  106 m;
G = 6.67  10–11 Nm2 kg–2.

Ans : (161) A (166) C (167) C (168) A

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 68 Escape Energy and Escape Speed

(170) A satellite is moving a constant speed

Hints & Solutions
'V' in a circular orbit about the earth. An
object of mass 'm' is ejected from the 153.
satellite such that it just escapes from the
2GM e
gravitational pull of the earth. At the time Escape Velocity ve 
Re
of its ejection, the kinetic energy of the
object is ............ [IIT-2011] is independent of mass of object

(A) (1/2) mV
2
(B) mV
2 155.
2 2 Escape Velocity on the earth’s surface is
(C) (3/2) mV (D) 2 mV
given by
(171) Two spherical planets P and Q have the
same uniform density , masses MP and 2GM e
ves = =11.2 km/s
Re
M Q and surface areas A and 4A
respectively. A spherical planet R also M'e = 2me
has uniform density  and its mass is
Re
( MP + MQ ). The escape velocities from R 'e =
2
the planets P, Q and R are VP, VQ and VR,
v'es 2M e R
respectively. Then .............. . [IIT-2012]  =  e
ves Me Re / 2
(A) VQ > VR > VP (B) VR > VQ > VP
(C) VR / VP = 3 (D) VP / VQ = (1/2) = 4
=2
Notes v 'es  2 ves
= 2 × 11.2
v 'es = 22.4 km/s

156. Escape energy at a platform of height R

from the earth’s surface
1 GMm
m ( fv)2 =
2 2R

2GM
f v=
2R

2GM on earth’s surface

ve = (ii)
R

Ans : (170) B (171) B,D

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Escape Energy and Escape Speed 69
f ve 2Gm R ve Me R p
= 
ve 2R 2Gm  vp Re MP

1
f = M e  3R e 
2 
R e  3M e 

157. ve 1

vP 1
 ve  2 gR
 ve = vP
(ve )1 2 gR1
 
(ve )2 2 gR2 161.

 kr  Escape velocity is independent from

angle of projection.

159.
162.
2GM
ve  1 v 2 GM e m 1
R mn 2 – = mv'2
2 ve Re 2
8
=  GR 2  1 GM e  1
3 m  n 2 ve2 –  mv '2

2 Re  2
2
ve R    
  e  e v'2 1 2 2 GM e
vp  RP    P  = n ve –
2 2 Re
ve 1
 v  2GM e
P 2 2 But ve =
Re
160.
GM e ve 2
M p  3M e  
Re 2
RP = 3Re
v '2
2GM e 2
 
 n2 – 1 ve2
ve = 2g Re 
Re
v '  ve n 2 – 1
Me
ve 
Re

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 70 Escape Energy and Escape Speed
163.
166.
v 2j 2GM j / R j  Escape velocity is independent from angle
=
ve2 2GM e /R e of projection.

v 2j 167.
= 28.39
ve2  MP = 10Me

v j = 28.39 ve Re
RP =
10
= 59.68 km/s
ve = 11 km s–1
164. vP = ?
1 GM e m 1
m (2ve )2 – = m v '2 2GM e
2 Re 2  For earth ve =  11 km/s
Re
4v e 2 GM e 1 2
– = v' 2GM P
2 Re 2  For planet vP =
RP
 v'2  3ve2
2G(10M e )
 v'  3ve =
Re
v'  19.39 km/s 10

2GM e
165. = 10
Re
E=K+U
vP = 10 ve = 110 km/s
GM e m
=–
2R e
168.
1
 m v2 = + E 2GM
2  Escape velocity ve =
R
1 GM e m
m v2 =
2 2R e 2GM/81
 v' e =
R/4
 v 2 = gR e
2
 v = g Re = ve
9
v = 7920 m/S 2
= (11.2)
Extra velocity = 11200 – 7920 9
= 3.3 × 103 m/s
v 'e  2.5 km/s

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Escape Energy and Escape Speed 71
170.
169. V is orbital velocity & ve is escape velocity
u = 5 kms = 5000 ms
–1 –1
then,
M = 6 × 10 kg24
ve = 2 V
R = 6.4 × 10 m 6
Kinetic energy at time of projection is
G = 6.67 × 10 –11
Nm kg
2 –2
1
K= m ve 2
 Suppose the rocket goes upto a height h 2
before returning to the earth. 1
 
2
= m 2V
 At this height velocity of rocket will 2
become zero. = m V2
 By the conservation of energy
171.
Total energy of earth’s surface Suppose mass of planet P is m. Radius of
= Total energy at height h planet P is r.

1 GMm GMm 4 3
mu 2 – =0–  m =  v =   πr 
2 R R+h 3 


1 4 3 
[ In mv2 final velocity is zero. So object  A  2
=   π  
2  3  4  
(body) return to earth. ]  

1 2 GM GM  4 3 
 
  π  4A  2
2
u =
R
–
R+h Mass of Q = ρ   =8m
  3   4π  
 
1 2 gR 2 gR 2 Mass of R = 9 m
u = –
2 R R+h 1
Radius of Q is 2r and Radius of R = 9 3 r
1 2  R 
u = gR 1 –  2GM p
2  R+h  Mass of R = 9m
vP =
RP 4 3 4 
1 2  h   r '   9  r3  
u = gR  3  3 
 2GM Q
2  R+h 
vQ = 1
3r
RQ r' = 9
Ru 2
h =
2gR – u 2 vR =
2GM R
RR
(6.4×106 ) (5×103 )2
= Use it and get the answer
2(9.8)(6.4×106 ) – (5 × 103 )2
h = 1.6 × 106 m

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 72 Satellites

9 Satellites :    Total energy of Satellite

   Satellite
 A body revolving around a planet is
called its satellite.

 Types
 Satellites can be classified into two
categories :
   Natural Satellite
 Moon is the natural satellite of the Earth.
 Moreover, Jupiter and other planets also  Suppose a satellite of mass m is launched
have their moons (means satellites). at distance r from the center of the Earth
 The periodic time of our moon’s revolution and its speed in the circular orbit is v0 .It is
around the Earth is 27.3 days and the also called the orbital speed or the orbital
periodic time of rotation of moon about its velocity.
own axis is also nearly the same.  Here r = Re + h where Re = radius of the
   Artificial Satellite Earth, h = height of the satellite from the
 The first artificial satellite made by the Earth’s surface.
mankind was “ Sputnic ” put into orbit  The necessary centripetal force (mv02/r) for
around the Earth by Russian scientsts in this circular motion of the satellite is
1957. provided by the Earth’s gravitational force
on it.
 Our Indian scientists have also successfully
mv02 GM em
launched ‘Aryabhatta’ and ‘INSAT’   (1)
r r2
series of satellites.
The orbital speed of the satellite is
 Presently hundreds of satellites launched
GM e
by many countries of the world around the v0 = (2)
r
Earth. They are used for scientific,
 From equation (1), the kinetic energy
engineering, communication, whether
forecast, spying and military purposes. 1 GM em
of the satellite is, K = mv02 =
2 2r
 In the present article we shall study the
 (3)
dynamics of the satellite and geo-stationary
(or geo-synchronous) as well as polar
satellites.

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Satellites 73
 The potential energy of this satellite (actually  Since all quantities in the bracket are
of the system of Earth + satellite) constant we can say that
2
GMem T r3
U= (4)
r  Thus, “the square of the orbital time-
period of the satellite is directly
 Total energy of the satellite is,
proportional to the cube of the orbital
E = kinetic energy K + potential energy U
radius.”
GM em GM em
=
2r
- r
 This is Kepler’s third law with reference to
the circular orbit of the satellite.
GMem
E = (5) From equation (7),
2r

 This total energy is negative, which indicates

that this satellite is in the bound state.
T= ( )
42r3 ½
GM e
(9)

 You will be able to see from equations (3),

9.4 Geo-stationary satellite :
(4) and (5) that if the kinetic energy of the
satellite is x, its potential energy is -2x and  The Earth’s satellite having orbital periodic
the total energy is -x. Hence its binding time of 24 hours (equal to the periodic time
energy also equal to its escape energy is x. of rotation of the Earth about its own axis),

9.3 Time period (T) of the satellite : is called geo-stationary satellite (or geo-

 The time taken by the satellite to complete sychronous satellite), because it appears

one revolution around Earth is called its always stationary as viewed from the Earth.

time-period or the periodic time or the  Such a geo-stationary revolve around the
period (T) of revolution. During this time Earth in the equatorial plane in east-west
the distance travelled by it is equal to the direction. See following figure.
circumference (= 2r) of the circular path.

2r
 The orbital speed v0 = (6)
T

mv02 GM em
 From the equation =
r r2

( )
m 42r 2 GM em

r T
2
r2

T = 2
( ) 42
GM e
r3 (7)

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 74 WEIGHTLESSNESS
 For geo-stationary satellite by putting  These satellites revolve around the Earth in
G = 6.67  10-11 Nm2 kg-2, north-south direction.
me = 5.98  1024 kg and  Their heights from the suface of the Earth
T = 24  3600 s, in is nearly 800 km.

T= ( )
42r3 ½
GM e
 Since the Earth rotates in the east-west
direction, these satellites (Their time-period
is almost 100 min.) Can view every section
we get r = 42260 km.
of the Earth many times in a day. With the
 Hence the height of this geo-stationary
help of a camera kept inside this satellite it
satellite from the Earth’s surface is
can see a thin strip of the Earth in every
h = r _ Re
rotation.
= 42260 _ 6400
 In the next rotation it will see the region of
= 35860 km. the next strip.
 A satellite cannot remain geo-stationary for  Thus can see the entire Earth many times
any other height except this one. in a day.
 Uses  They are useful in remote sensing,
 These satellites are used in telecommuni- meteorology, environmental study, spying
cation. etc.
 Moreover they are also used in Global
Positioning System (GPS) in which a 10. Weightlessness :
person gets information about various ways
 Weight of an object is the force with which
and the shortest route to go from his
the earth attracts it.
present position to his destination,alongwith
 We are conscious of our own weight when
the map displayed on the screen of the
we stand on a surface, since the surface
monitor.
exerts a force opposite to our weight to
9.5 Polar Satellite :
keep us at rest.
 The same principle holds good when we
measure the weight of an object by a spring
balance hung from a fixed point e.g. the
ceiling.
 The object would fall down unless it is
subject to a force opposite to gravity. This
is exactly what the spring exerts on the
object.

The cameras kept at this height can

capture only very tiny portion like thin slit.
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WEIGHTLESSNESS 75
 This is because the spring is pulled down  Pictures of astronauts floating in a satellite
a little by the gravitational pull of the object reflect this fact.
and in turn the spring exerts a force on the
object vertically upwards. Notes
 Now, imagine that the top end of the
balance is no longer held fixed to the top
ceiling of the room.
 Both ends of the spring as well as the object
move with identical acceleration g.
 The spring is not stretched and does not
exert any upward force on the object which
is moving down with acceleration g due to
gravity.
 The reading recorded in the spring balance
is zero since the spring is not stretched at
all.
 If the object were a human being, he or she
will not feel his weight since there is no
upward force on him.
 Thus, when an object is in free fall, it is
weightless and this phenomenon is usually
called the phenomenon of weightlessness.
 In a satellite around the earth, every part
and parcel of the satellite has an acceleration
towards the center of the earth which is
exactly the value of earth’s acceleration due
to gravity at that position.
 Thus in the satellite everything inside it is
in a state of free fall.
 This is just as if we were falling towards
the earth from a height.
 Thus, in a manned satellite, people inside
experience no gravity.
 Gravity for us defines the vertical direction
and thus for them there are no horizontal
or vertical directions, all directions are the
same.
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 76 Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS

Solved Problems v 
Gm
2d
(172)Two satellites revolving around a
planet in the same orbit have the ratio of (174) The radii of circular orbits of two
their masses (m1 /m2) = (1/2). The ratio of satellites A and B of the earth are 4R
their orbital velocities (v1 / v2) = ............ . and R, respectively. If the speed of
satellite A is 3v, then the speed of
A 1 B ½ C 2 D 4
satellite A is 3v, then the speed of
Solution :
satellite B will be.... [NEET-2010 ]
 In orbital velocity v0 = GMe / r mass is
(A) 3 v / 4 (B) 6 v
not present, therefore the orbital velocity
does not depend upon the mass. (C) 12 v (D) 3 v / 2
(173) The distance between two bodies, each Solution :
of mass m is d. If they perform circular  Orbital speed of satellite
motion around their centre of mass;
vA rB
what is their orbital velocity ?  
vB rA
(A) Gm / d (B) Gm / 4d
(C) Gm / 3d (D) Gm / 2d R

Solution : 4R
1

2
vA 3v 1
 
vB v B 2

vB  6 v
(175)A satellite revolves in a circular orbit
around the earth. If the gravitational
 Centripetal force Gravitational force force on it by the Earth suddenly
disappears; then
mv 2 Gmm (A) it will move with the same speed in
 2
d d the tangential direction to its orbit
2
at that instant
Gm (B) it will move with the same speed on
 2v 2 
d its orbit
Gm (C) it will fall towards the Earth with
 v2  an accelerated motion
2d
(D) it will become stationary at the point
Ans : (172) A (173) D (174) B (175) A
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Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS 77
(176) Consider different planets revolving (178) The time period of a satellite of earth
in different circular orbits around the star is 5 hours. If the separation between the
of very large mass If the gravitational earth and the satellite is increased to 4
force between the planet and the star times the previous value, the new time
varies as r -5/2 , r = distance between them. period will become ..... hours.
How does the square of the orbital period [AIEEE-2003]
T depend on the distance r ? (A) 10 (B) 80 (C) 40 (D) 20
Solution : Solution :
 r = orbital radius of the planet around
 According to the Kepler’s third law
star
 T2  r 3
M = mass of the star
m = mass of the planet T12 r13
 = 3
 required centripetal force = gravi. force T22 r2
mv2 GMm
= 5/2 2 r23 2
r r  T = 3 T1
2
r1
( )
2
2r GMr
=
T r
5/2
 T22 = (4)3 (5)2
2
4 2
r = 5/2
GMr  h
2
T r (179) If the distance between the earth and

( )
2
2 4 7/2 the sun were half its present value, the
T = r
GM number of days in a year would have
( ) been ........ [IIT-1996]
 T2 r7/2
(A) 64.5 (B) 129 (C) 182.5 (D) 730
(177) If the time period of a satellite in the (180) From the surface of the earth at height
orbit of radius r around a planet is T, of 5R a geostationary satellite is
then the time period of a satellite in the moving. Where R is radius of the earth.
orbit of radius 4r is T' = ............... . At the height of 2R from the surface of
the earth, for another satellite. The time
(A) 4T (B) 2T (C) 8T (D) 16T
period of satellite will be ............ hours.
Solution :
[ NEET : 2012 ]
 Tr 3/2
6
T2 r
( ) ( ) 4r (A) 5 (B) 10 (C) 6 2 (D)
3/2 3/2
 = 2 = 2
T1 r1 r Solution :
T  According to the Kepler’s third law
 2 = 8
T
= 8 T  T2  r 3
2
( ) If F rn then T rn+1
2 Ans : (177) C (178) C (179) B (180) C
If F  r2 , then T  r3
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 78 Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS
2
T 2
r (3R)3 3 r  T 3 (ii)

2
= = 2

T 2
r 3
(6R)3 from equation (i) and (ii)
1 1

2
K  T –2/3
T 24
 T22 = =1

8 2 2 (183) The density of a planet is. What is the

 T2 = 6 2 h orbital period of a satellite revolving
around it; remaining close to its
(181)What is the nature of relation between
surface ?
the kinetic energy (Ek) and their orbital 3/2 1/2
(A) 3 / G (B) 3 / G
radius (r) of the satellites revolving 1/2 3/2
around the Earth ? (C) 3 / 2G (D) 3 / 2G
Solution :
(A) Ek  r (B) Ek  ( 1/ r )
2
(C) Ek  r2 (D) Ek  ( 1/ r ) mv 2 GMm
 
Solution : R R2
 Centripetal force = Gravitation force 1
 GM 2
 v 
mv = GM em
2
½ mv = GM em 2
 R 
r r2 2r
1

2(
Ek = GM em .1
r ) 
 GM
Rω  
 R 

2
(  v = Rω)
 Ek  1
r
GM em
2
(
is constant ) 
(182)How does the kinetic energy of different 1
 4 3 2
satellites revolving around a planet  G  3R    4 3 
depend on their periodic time T ?
Rω     M   R  
 R   3 
_2/3  
(A) proportional to T
2/3
(B) proportional to T 1
3/2 2π 4 2 1 2π
(C) proportional to T  π GR 2ρ × ω =
_3/2 T 3 R T
(D) proportional to T
Solution : 1
2π  4 2
GMm    π Gρ 
 Kinetic Energy K = T 3 
2r

 K  1 r (i)  2π
T= 1
 According to the Kepler’s third law 4 2
 π Gρ 
3 
Ans : (181) B (182) A (183) B
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Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS 79

( )
1/3
1
 3π 2  r = GM2 T2/3
 T=  4

 G   log r = (1/3) log ( ) GM
42
+ (2/3) logT
(184) An artificial satellite revolves around
the Earth, remaining close to the
= (2/3)log T + (1/3) log 42 ( Gm )
comparing with y = mx + C
surface of the Earth. Show that its slope of the graph m = (2/3)
time-period is T = 2 R e
g
Ans :

( )
2
4
 Put r = Re directly in T =
2

GM e

( )
2 2
2 4 R e
T  Re Satellite
GM e
(187)For different satellites revolving around
( )
2
4
 Re a planet in different circular orbits,
g
which of the following shows the
Re relation between the angular
T = 2
g momentum L and the orbital radius r ?
1
(185) A geo-stationary satellite orbits around A L B L  r2
r
the earth in a circular orbit of radius 1
C L r D L 2
36000 km. Then, the time period of a r
Solution :
spy satellite orbiting a few hundred km
above the earth's surface (R earth =
 L = mvr = m ( )
GMe
r
r

6400 km) will approximately L = m GMe r

be............. [IIT-2002] L r
(A) 1/2 hr (B) 1 hr (C) 2 hr (D) 4 hr
(188) A satellite of mass m revolves around
(186) Using orbital radius r and the the Earth in the circular orbit of
corresponding periodic time T of radius r. What is its angular
different satellites revolving around a
momentum ? The mass of the earth is
planet, what would be the slope of the
M.
graph of log r  log T ?
(A) 3/2 (B) 3 (C)2/3 (D) 2 Gm
(A) m r (B) M Gmr
Solution :
 From, Gm

( )
4 2 (C) M r (D) m GMr
2 3
T = GM r ;

 r3 = 42 ( )
GM
T2 Ans : (185) C (186) C (187) C (188) D

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 80 Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS
Solution : (191) An artificial satellite moving in a
 Angular momentum of satellite having circular orbit around the Earth has a
mass m total (kinetic + potential) energy E0.
Its potential energy is... [IIT-1997]
L = mvr
 GM 
L=m 
r
r
( Orbital speed of
satellite v = GM
r
) (A) - E0 (B) 1.5 E 0 (C) 2E 0 (D) E 0
(192) The satellite of mass m is orbiting
around the earth in a circular orbit
 
=m GMr with a velocity v. What will be its total
energy ? [NEET-1991]
(189) A satellite of mass m revolves in a
circular orbit of radius r around a (A) ¾ mv2 (B) ½ mv2
planet of mass M. What is its areal (C) mv2 (D) (½) mv2
velocity ?
(A) Gmr / 2 (B) GMr / 2 Solution :
(C) Gmr (D) m GMr
Solution :
dA L
Areal velocity of satellite 
dt 2m Total energy of satellite = P.E + K.E.
mvr vr GMm 1 2
2m 2 –  mv
R 2
1  GM  GMm m  GM   GM 
  r
2 r  –     v  
R 2 R  R 

( Orbital speed of satellite v 

GM
r
) –
GMm
2R
dA 1 1 2
  GMr  Total energy of satellite – mv
dt 2 2
(190) A binary star system consists of two (193) Choose the correct alternative :
stars A and B which have time period (a)If the zero of potential energy is at
TA and TB, radius RA and RB and mass infinity, the total energy of an
MA and MB. Then..... [IIT-2006] orbiting satellite is negative of its
(A) if TA > TB then RA > RB kinetic /potential energy.
(B) if TA > TB then MA > MB (b)The energy required to launch an
orbiting satellite out of earth’s
(C) (TA/TB)2 = (RA/RB)3
gravitational influence is more / less
(D) TA = TB
Ans : (189) B (190) D (191) C (192) D
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Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS 81
than the energy required to project Solution :
a stationary object at the same  gravitational acceleration for rotation of
height (as the satellite) out of earth’s planet = gravitational force
mv2 GMem GMem
influence. =  ½ mv 2
=
r r2 2r
Solution :
(a) Kinetic energy  In Ek = ( GM em
2 ) . 1
r
(b) Less
GM em
(194) A roller coaster is designed such that constant
2
riders experience "weightlessness" as 1
 Ek 
they go round the top of a hill whose r
radius of curvature is 20 m. The speed
Notes
of the car at the top of the hill is
between [NEET-2008]
(A) 14 m/s and 15 m/s
(B) 15 m/s and 16 m/s
(C) 16 m/s and 17 m/s
(D) 13 m/s and 14 m/s
Solution :
The appearance of weightlessness occurs
in space when the gravitational attraction
of the earth on a body in space is equal to
the centripetal force.

mv 2
 mg
r
 v  rg

 20  10
v  14.14 m/s
(195) What kind of relation exists between
tthe
h e kinetic
k i n et ienergy
c en er(E E k )the
g yk ) (and and the
orbital
orbital
radius (r) radius
of the(r) of the revolving
satellites satellites
revolving
around thearound
Earth?the Earth?
A Ek  r B Ek  (1/r)
C Ek  r2 D Ek  (1/r2)

Ans : (194) A (195) B

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 82 Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS

Current Topic Practice (201) A geostationary satellite is orbiting the

earth at a height of 6 R from the earth's
(196) If the gravitational force between two surface ( R is the earth's radius ). What is
objects were proportional to 1/R (and the period of rotation of another satellite
2
not as 1 / R ), where R is separation at a height of 2.5 R from the earth's
between them, then a particle in circular surface [AIIMS-2011]
orbit under such a force would have its (A) 6 2 hours
orbital speed v proportional to
(B) 10 hours
[NEET-1989] (C) ( 5 5 / 3 ) hours
2 0
(A) 1 / R (B) R (C) R (D) 1 / R
(D) none of the above
(197) A satellite of mass m revolves around (202) A satellite revolves around the Earth at a
the earth of radius R at a height x from height from surface equal to the radius of
its surface. If g is the acceleration due to the Earth. Calculate its
(1) orbital speed (2) time period.
gravity on the surface of the earth, The
Take G = 6.67  10-11 Nm2/kg2,
orbital speed of the satellite is....
raidus of the Earth = 6400 km and
[AIIEE-2004] mass of the Earth = 6  1024 kg.
gR
2
gR gR
2 1/2 (203) How will you ‘weigh the sun’, that is
(A) (B) _ (C) gx (D) estimate its mass? The mean orbital
R+x R x R+x
radius of the earth around the sun is
(198) Suppose there existed a planet that went
1.5  108 km.
around the sun twice as fast as the earth.
(204) A satellite is launched into a circular orbit
What would be its orbital size as
of radius R around the earth. While a
compared to that of the earth ?
second satellite launched into an orbit of
(199) The period of revolution of planet A round
radius 1.01 R. The period of the second
the sun is 8 times that of B. The distance
satellite is longer than the first one by
of A from the sun is how many times
approximately : [AIIMS-2002]
greater than that of B from the sun ?
(A) 3.0 % (B) 1.5 %
[NEET-1997]
(C) 0.7 % (D) 1.0 %
(A) 5 (B) 4 (C) 3 (D) 2
(205) For a satellite moving in an orbit around
(200) The distances of two planets from the
13 12
the earth, the ratio of kinetic energy to
sun are 10 m and 10 m respecitvely.
potential energy is ....... [NEET-2005]
The ratio of time periods of these two
1 1
planets is (A) 2 (B) (C) (D) 2
2 2
[NEET-1988]
1
(A) (B) 100 (C)10 10 (D) 10
10

Ans : (196) B (197) B (199) B (200) C (201) A (204) B (205) B

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Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS 83
(206) Two satellites of earth, S1 and S2, are (C) fall down to earth gradually
moving in the same orbit. The mass ofS1 (D) go far away in space
is four times the mass S2. Which one of (210) The planet Mars has two moons, phobos
the following statements is true ? and delmos.
[NEET-2007] (i) phobos has a period 7 hours,
(A) The time period of S1 is four times 39 minutes and an orbital radius of
that of S2 9.4 × 103 km. Calculate the mass of mars.
(B) The potential energies of earth and (ii) Assume that earth and mars move in
satellite in the two cases are equal. circular orbits around the sun, with the
(C) S1 and S2 are moving with the same martian orbit being 1.52 times the orbital
speed. radius of the earth. What is the length of
(D) The kinetic energies of two satellites the martian year in days ?
are equal.
(211) Weighing the Earth : You are given the
(207) The geostationary satellite revolves .....
following data: g = 9.81 ms –2 ,
(A) from south to north in the polar plane
RE = 6.37 x 106 m, the distance to the
(B) from north to south in the polar plane
moon R = 3.84 x 108 m and the time period
(C) from east to west in the equatorial plane
of the moon’s revolution is 27.3 days.
(D) from west to east in the equatorial plane
Obtain the mass of the Earth ME in two
(208) Make suitable pairs
different ways.
I II (212) A 400 kg satellite is in a circular orbit of
P polar satellite 1 tele communication radius 2RE about the Earth. How much
Q Geostationary 2 useful in moon energy is required to transfer it to a circular
satellite expendition orbit of radius 4RE ? What are the changes
3 spying in the kinetic and potential energies ?
(A) P  1, Q  2 (B) P  3, Q  1 (213) If suddenly the gravitationl force of
attraction between Earth and a satellite
(C) P  3, Q  2 (D) P  2, Q  3
revolving around it becomes zero, then
(209) A ball is dropped from a satellite
the satellite will [AIEEE-2002]
revolveing around the earth at a height
of 120 km. The ball will....... (A) Continue to move in its orbit with
[NEET-1996] same velocity
(A) continue to move with same speed (B) move tangentially to the original
along a straight line tangentially to orbit in the same velocity
the satellite at that time (C) become stationary in its orbit
(B) continue to move with the same
(D) move towards the earth
speed along the original orbit of
satellite
Ans : (206) C (207) D (208) B (209) B (213) B
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 84 Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS
(214) The time period of an earth satellite in (218) A satellite A of mass m is at a distance r
circular orbit is independent of from the centre of the earth. Another
[AIEEE-2004] satellite B of mass 2m is at a distance of
2r from the earth's centre. Their time
(A) the mass of the satellite
periods are in the ratio of.... [NEET-1993]
(B) radius of its orbit
(A) 1 : 2 (B) 1 : 16
(C) both the mass and radius of the orbit (C) 1 : 32 (D) 1 : 2 2
(D) neither the mass of the satellite nor (219) A geostationary satellite is orbiting the
the radius of its orbit. earth at a height of 6 R from the earth's
(215) A satellite of mass m is orbiting the earth surface ( R is the earth's radius ). What is
(of radius R) at a height h from its surface. the period of rotation of another satellite
The total energy of the satellite in terms at a height of 2.5 R from the earth's
of g0, the value of acceleration due to surface [AIIMS-2011]
gravity at the earth’s surface, is : (A) 6 2 hours
[NEET : PHASE : 2 (2016)] (B) 10 hours
2 2
2mg 0R 2mg 0R (C) ( 5 5 / 3 ) hours
(A) (B) 
R+h R+h
2
(D) none of the above
mg 0R 2
mg 0R (220) A satellite is launched into a circular orbit
(C) 2 (R + h) (D) 
2 (R + h) of radius R around the earth. While a
 The mean radius of earth is R, its angu-
second satellite launched into an orbit of
lar speed on its own axis is  and the
radius 1.01 R. The period of the second
acceleration due to gravity at earth's sur-
satellite is longer than the first one by
face is g. What will be the radius of the
approximately : [AIIMS-2002]
orbit of a geostationary satellite ?
(A) 3.0 % (B) 1.5 %
[NEET-1992]
2 1/3 1/3
(C) 0.7 % (D) 1.0 %
(A) ( R g / 2 ) (B) ( Rg / 2 )
2
(C) ( R 2 / g )
1/3
(D) ( R2g / )
1/3
Notes
 The escape velocity from earth is
11.2 km/s. If a body is to be projected in
0
a direction making an angle 45 to the
vertical, then the escape velocity is....
[NEET-1993 ]
(A) 11.2  2 km/sec(B) 11.2 km/sec
11.2
(C) km/sec (D) 11.2 2 km/sec
2
Ans : (214) A (215) D (216) A (217) B (218) D (219) A (220) B
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Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS 85
Hints & Solutions
TP2 rP3
=
Te2 re3
196.
 Gravitational force between two objects 2
T  3
rP =  P  re
1
F F
R
k
R (
 k = Constant
)  Te 
2
T / 2 3
= 2   1 AU
 In equilibrium, the gravitational force  Te 
provides the required centripetal force to
2
the partical. =  0.5  3 AU

mv 2 k rP = 0.63AU

R R 199.
 v  Rº  According to kepler’s third law,
197. T2  r 3
 Centripital force of a satellite = TA2 R 3A
gravitational force of earth  2= 3
TB rB
mvo 2 GMm 2
 
Rx ( R  x )2 r T  3
 A=  A
rB  TB 
GM
 vo 2  2
Rx = 8 3

gR 2 g
GM =4
  2
Rx R
rA = 4 rB
1 200.
 gR 2  2
 vo =    According to kepler’s third law,
 R+x 
T2  r3
198.
3

 Let period of revolution of the earth = Te T12 r13 1013

= 3= 3
period of revolution of the planet Tp T22 r2 1012

Te = 1039 – 36
TP =
2
= 103
 Orbital size of the earth re = 1 AU
T1
Orbital size of the planet rp = ?   10 10
T2
From kepler’s third law

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 86 Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS
201. (ii) v = r
v
  =
T2  r 3 r
2 v
3
T
=
2R e  = 2 r = 2Re)
T1  r1  2
  
T2  r2  4Re
T =
v
3 5
 7R  2 4(3.14) (64  10 )
  T =
 3.5 R  5591
4
T1 T = 1.437  10 sec  14370 s
 = 8
T2
203.
T1
 T2 =  r = 1.5 × 108 km = 1.5 × 1011 m
8
 T = 365 days = 365  24  3600 sec.
24
= =6 2 h  Let the mass of the sun is M
8
Centrilpetal force required between the
T2 = 6 2 h
eath and sun = force of gravitation

202. mv 2 GMm
 =

_
G = 6.67  10 11 Nm2 / kg2 r r2
5
Re = 6400 km = 64  10 m m  2πr  GMm
2
24    = 2
Me = 6  10 kg r  T  r
Satellite
4π 2 r 3
M =
GT 2

4 × 9.87 × (1.5 × 1011 )3

=
6.67 × 10 –11 (365 × 24 × 3600)2

(i) centripetal force = gravitational force M = 2.01 × 1030 kg

2
mv GM em
=
r r
2

204.
2 GM e
v = ( r = 2Re) T  r 3/2
2R e
_ 24
(6.67  10 11) (6  10 ) T  r Whatever percentage increases
= 5
2(64  10 ) in r half of the percentage will increase
8
= 0.3126  10 in T.
v = 5591 m/s
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Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS 87

 From T  r r 3 , whatever percentage 211.

F GM E
increases in r, its 3 times of the percentage  From g = = 2
m RE
will increase in T here r increases by 1% 2
gR E
so T will be increases by 3% We have ME =
G
Here T  r r 3
so T will become 6 2
= 9.81 ( 6.37 _ 10 )
(0.5%) (3%) = 1.5% 6.67  10
11

210. 24
= 5.97 10 kg
i We employ T2 = k ( RE + h )3
2
[ where k = ( 4 / GM E ) ] with M E The moon is a satellite of the Earth. From
replaced by the martian mass Mm the derivation of Kepler’s third law


2
2 2 3 4
2 4 3 T = k ( RE + h ) where k =
T = R 3 GM E
GM E 2
2
4 R
2 3 T =
4 R GM E
Mm = 2
G T 2
4 R
3

2 3
4 ( 3.14 ) ( 9.4 )  10
18 ME = 2
= _11 GT
2 3 24
6.67 10 ( 4.59  60 )
2
4 (3.14 ) ( 3.84 )  10
= _11 2
2 3 18 6.6710  (27.3246060)
Mm = 4 ( 3.14 ) ( 9.4 )  10
2
_5
6.67 ( 4.59  6 ) 10 = 6.02 10 kg
24

23
= 6.48 10 kg  Both methods yield almost the same
ii Once again Kepler’s third law comes to answer, the difference between them being
our aid, less than 1%.
2 3
TM RMS 212.
2 = 3
TE RES GM Em
 Initially, Ei = 
4R E
where RMS is the mars -sun distance and
GM Em
RES is the earth-sun distance.  While finally Ef = 
8R E
 TM = (1.52)3/2 x 365
 The change in the total energy is
= 684 days
E = Ef – Ei
 We note that the orbits of all planets except

GM Em GM E mR E
Mercury, Mars and Pluto are very close to = = 2
8R E R 8
being circular. For example, the ratio of the E
6
semiminor to semi-major axis for our Earth gmR E 9.81  400 6.37  10
E = =
is, ( b / a ) = 0.99986. 8 8
9
E = 3.13 10 J
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 88 Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS
216.
 The kinetic energy is reduced and it mimics
E, namely, GM
 Orbital speed of satellite is vo 
K = Kf – Ki = – 3.13 x 10 J. 9
r
 The change in potential energy is twice the
gR 2
change in the total energy, namely vo 
r
V = Vf – Vi = – 6.25 x 109 J
 Periodic time
213.
2πr  GM 
T 
v0  g  2 
 R 

2πr
 1
 gR 2  2
 
 r 
214.
3
We know that, 2πr 2

GM e T 2 gR 2
r3 =
4π 2
but T= 2 / 
1
 4π 2 r 3  2 3
2
 T =   2πr 2π
 T= =
 GM e  gR 2 ω
From above equation time period of an
earth satellite is independant of its mass. 3 gR 2
Hence r 2 =
215. ω

 Total energy of a satellite at height h 3 gR 2

 r =
= K.E. + P.E. ω2

GMm GMm 1
= –  gR 2  3
2(R+h) (R+h)  r =  2 
 ω 
– GMm
=
2(R+h) 217.
2
– GMmR  Escape speed is independant from angle
=
2R 2 (R+h) of projection.

– mg o R 2  GM 
=  g o = 2 
2(R+h)  R 
GYANMANJARI CAREER ACADEMY | BOARD - GUJCET - NEET - JEE | PHYSICS - PART - I
Satellites  WEIGHTLESSNESS 89

218. 220.
T  r 3/2
 From kepler’s third law
 From T  r , whatever percentage
2 3
T r increases in r half of the percentage will
T1 r3 r3 increase in T. So 1% here r increases by
= = 1% so T will be increases by 0.5%.
T2 (2r)3 8r 3
 From T  r 3 , whatever percentage
T1 1 increases in r, its 3 times of the percentage
 T =
2 2 2 will increase in T.
 Here r increases by 1% so T will be
219. increases by 3%.

Here T  r r 3
 T2  r 3 so T will become (0.5%) (3%) = 1.5%.
3


T1 r 
  1
2
Notes
T2  r2 
3
 7R  2
  
 3.5 R 

T1
  8
T2

T1
 T2 =
8

24
= 6 2 h
8

T2 = 6 2 h

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 90 Miscellaneous Problems

Miscellaneous Problems :
Miscellaneous Problems

(221)Prove that the ratio of the rate of 2

r1
3
T1
change of g at a height equal to the 
2 3
T2 r2
Earth’s radius from the surface of the

( )
2
Earth to the value of g at the surface 3 3 T2
r2 r1
of the Earth is equal to -1/4Re T1
2

Ans :
( )
2
 62.8
 
 The gravitational acceleration at distance 31.4
2

r  Re from the center of the Earth is 1/3

r2= (4000)(4) = ( 4000) (1.588)
g(r) = GMe / r2 ( )
r2 = 6352 km
 Differentiating with respect to r,

[ ] dg(r) 2GMe 2r1 (2)(3.14)(4000)

= (ii) v1 = =
dr r3 T1 31.4

and r = Re + h = Re + Re = 2Re v1 = 800 km/h

[ ] dg(r)
dr 2Re
=
2GMe
(2Re ) 3
=
2GMe
8Re 3 v2 =
2r2
T2
=
(2)(3.14)(6352)
62.8
 But gravitational acceleration on the surface
v2 = 635.2 km/h
GMe
of the Earth ge = (223) Two objects of masses 1 kg and 2 kg
R e2
respectively are released from rest

[ ] dg(r)
dr 2Re 2GMe R e2 1
when their separation is 10 m.
Assuming that only mutual
=  = gravitational force act on them, find
ge 8Re 3 GMe 4Re
the velocity of each of them when
(222) Two satellites S1 and S2 revolve around separation becomes 5m.
_11 2 2
a planet in two different coplanar (Take G = 6.66  10 Nm / kg )
circular orbits in the same direction Ans :
their periods are 31.4 h and 62.8 h and
the radius orbit of S1 is 4000 km, find
(i) the radius of the orbit of S2
(ii) the magnitudes of the velocities of
the two satellites.
Ans :
1/3
(i)
2
T r
3 ( ) x = 4 logx = (1/3) log4 = (1/3) (0.6021)
logx = 0.2007  x = Antilog (0.20007)
GYANMANJARI CAREER ACADEMY | BOARD - GUJCET - NEET - JEE | PHYSICS - PART - I
Miscellaneous Problems 91
 Initially velocities of both the particles are  
zero and hence their kinetic energies are  0 = m1v1' + m2v2'
zero. i.e. v1 = v2 = 0; K1 = K2 = 0  
 m1v1' = m2v2'
 When the separtation is 5m, their velocities
are v1' and v2' and kinetic energis are K'1 and  m 
 v 1' =  m 2 v 2'
K2' Respectively. 1

 For this system initial potential energy

G m1m2
 m
( ) 
v1'  = m 2 v2' 
1
U1 =
r1  v 1' = 2 v 2' (2)
_11
(6.67  10 ) (1  2)
=  From eqns. (1) and (2)
10
_ 4v 1'2 _12
= 13.32  10 12 J + v2'2 =13.32  10
2
G m1m2 _12
 Final potential energy U2 =  3v2'2 = 13.32  10
r2 _12 _14
_11  v2'2 =4.44  10 =444  10
(6.67  10 ) (1  2) _7
=  v2' =21.07  10 m/s
5 _7
_  v1' =42.14  10 m/s
= 26.64  10 12 J
 Change in potential energy (224) The mass and radius of the Earth are
U = U2 _ U1 M1, R1 and those for the moon are M2,
_12 _12
= 26.64  10 _ (13.32  10 ) R2 respectively. The distance between
_12
= 13.32  10 J their centres is d. With what velocity
 According to the law of conservation of should an object of mass m be thrown
mechanical energy away from the mid-point of the line
K + U = constant K + U = 0. joining them so that it escapes to
K = U infinity ?
Ans :
(K'1 + K'2 ) _ 0 = _ ( U2 _ U1 )
1 1
m2v'2 ) _ (0)
2 2
( m1v1' +
2 2
_12
= 13.32  10 J
v 1'2 _12
 + v2'2 =13.32  10 (1)
2  The distance between the Earth and moon
 According to the law of conservation of d
is d. The ‘m’ is situated at from Earth
momentum, final total momentum = initial 2
and moon.
total momentum.
P.E. of the mass ‘ m’ due to Earth is
By taking m1 = 1kg, m2 = 2 kg
GM 1m 2GM1m
Total momentum will be zero because, U1 = _ = _ (1)
external force is zero. d 2 d
GYANMANJARI CAREER ACADEMY | BOARD - GUJCET - NEET - JEE | PHYSICS - PART - I
 92 Miscellaneous Problems

 Let the potential energy of mass m due Solution :

d  The projectile is acted upon by two
to moon at distance be
2 mutually opposing gravitational forces of
_ GM 2m 2GM2m
U2 = = _ (2) the two spheres. The neutral point N ( see
d 2 d
Figure ) is defined as the position where
 Total Gravitational P.E., U = U1 + U2
the two forces cancel each other exactly.
_ 2Gm
= (M1 + M2) (3)
d If ON = r, we have
 Escaped energy applied to the object GMm 4GMm
for sending it at infinite distance. =
r 2
( 6R  r )2
2Gm
=+ (M1 + M2) ( 6R – r )2 = 4r2
d
 If the particle have escape speed 6R – r = ± 2r
becomes ve then r = 2R or – 6R.
2Gm
2
½ mve = (M1 + M2 )  The neutral point r = – 6R does not concern
d
us in this example. Thus ON = r = 2R. It is
 ve = 2 G (M + M ) sufficient to project the particle with a
1 2
d
speed which would enable it to reach N.
Note :Find the escape velocity for a particle lying
 Thereafter, the greater gravitational pull of
at a distance d/3 from the surface of the
Earth. d1 = d/3, d2 = 2d/3 4M would suffice. The mechanical energy
at the surface of M is
Ans. : (3G / d) (2M1 + M2 )
(225) Two uniform solid spheres of equal GMm 4GMm
Ei = ½ m v 2 – – .
R 5R
radii R, but mass M and 4 M have a
 At the neutral point N, the speed
center to centre separation 6 R, as
approaches zero. The mechanical energy
shown in Figure. The two spheres are
at N is purely potential.
held fixed. A projectile of mass m is
projected from the surface of the GMm 4GMm
EN = – – .
sphere of mass M directly towards the 2R 4R
centre of the second sphere. Obtain  From the principle of conservation of
an expression for the minimum speed mechanical energy
v of the projectile so that it reaches GM 4GM GM GM
the surface of the second sphere. ½ v2 
R 5R 2R R
OR

v2 
2GM
R
 45  12 
3GM ½
v   5R

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Miscellaneous Problems 93
(226) The planet Mars has two moons,
semiminor to semi-major axis for our Earth
phobos and delmos.
is, ( b / a ) = 0.99986.
(i) phobos has a period 7 hours,
39 minutes and an orbital radius of (227) Weighing the Earth : You are given
9.4 x 103 km. Calculate the mass of the following data: g = 9.81 ms –2,
mars. RE = 6.37 x 106 m, the distance to the
(ii) Assume that earth and mars move moon R = 3.84 x 108 m and the time
in circular orbits around the sun, with period of the moon’s revolution is
the martian orbit being 1.52 times the 27.3 days. Obtain the mass of the
orbital radius of the earth. What is the Earth ME in two different ways.
length of the martian year in days ? Solution :
F GM E
Solution :  From g = = 2
2 m RE
(i) We employ T = k ( RE + h ) 3
2
2
[ where k = ( 4 / GM E ) ] with M E gR E
we have , ME =
replaced by the martian mass Mm G
6 2
2 4
2 3 9.81 ( 6.37  10 )
From, T = R = _11
GM m 6.67  10
2
4 R 3
Mm = 2
24
= 5.97 10 kg
G T
2 3 18
4 ( 3.14 ) ( 9.4 )  10  The moon is a satellite of the Earth. From
= _11 2
6.67 10 ( 459  60 ) the derivation of Kepler’s third law
2 3 18
4 ( 3.14 ) ( 9.4 )  10
Mm = 2
_5 2 3 4
2
6.67 ( 4.59  6 ) 10 T = k ( RE + h ) where k =
23 2 3 GM E
= 6.48 10 kg 2 4 R
T =
GM E
(ii) Once again Kepler’s third law comes to 2 3
4 R
our aid, ME = 2
2 3 GT
TM RMS 2 3
4 (3.14 ) ( 3.84 )  10
24

2
= 3 = _11
TE RES 6.6710 (27.3  24  60  60)
2

24
where RMS is the mars -sun distance and = 6.02 10 kg
RES is the earth-sun distance.  Both methods yield almost the same
 TM = (1.52)3/2 x 365 answer, the difference between them being
= 684 days less than 1%.
 We note that the orbits of all planets except
Mercury, Mars and Pluto are very close to
being circular. For example, the ratio of the

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 94 Miscellaneous Problems
(228) Express the constant k of mouth etc. are all embedded in the face,
[ T2 = k ( RE + h )3 hence, swollen face may affect to great
( where k = 4 2 / GME )] in days and extent the seeing/hearing/smelling/eating/
–13
kilometres. Given k = 10 s2 m–3. The capabilities of the astronaut in space.
moon is at a distance of 3.84 x 105 km (C) : Headache due to mental stress. It
from the earth. Obtain its time-period will perist wheather a person is an
of revolution in days. astronaut in space or he is on earth. It
Solution : means headache will have the same effect
 Given on the astronaut in space as or a person
on earth.
k = 10–13 s2 m–3
_13 1 2 (D) : Space also has orientation. We also
= 10 d
(24  60 60)
2
have the frames of reference in space.
1 Hence, orientation problems will affect
1000
1
 km
3 3
the astronaut in space.
_14 2 _ (230) Two stars each of one solar mass
= 1.33  10 d km 3
( = 2  1030 kg) are approaching each
2
 Using eqn [ T = k ( RE + h )3 other for a head on collision. When
( where k = 42 / GME ) ] and the given they are a distance 109 km, their speeds
value of k, the time period of the moon is are negligible. What is the speed with
T2 = ( 1.33 x 10-14 ) (3.84 x 105 )3 which they collide ? The radius of each
T = 27.3 d star is 104 km. Assume the stars to
remain undistorted until they collide.
(229) Which of the following symptoms is
(Use the known value of G).
likely to afflict an astronaut in space
(a) swollen feet, (b) swollen face, Solution :
GM 2
(c) headache, (d) orientational  Initial P.E. of the system = 
r
problem.
GM 2
Solution :  Final P.E. of the two stars = 
2R
(A) : We know that the legs carry the
weight of the body in the normal
 The K.E. of the stars = Mv2
position due to gravity pull. The
 gain in K.E. = loss in P.E.
astronaut in space is in weightless state.
GM 2
Mv2 = – GM
2

Hence, swollen feet may not affected his  

r 2R
working.

( )
1 1
(B) : In the conditions of weightless, the v2 = GM –
face of the astronaut excpeted to get more 2R r

( )
supply of blood. Due to it astronaut may 1 1
v = GM –
develop swollen face. As eyes, ears, nose, 2R r
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Miscellaneous Problems 95

 
 Centripetal acceleration
v=
–11
(6.67 × 10 ) (2 × 10 ) 1 30
–
1
7 12
2 × 10 10 v2
ac = = r (2πf )2
6
v = 2.583 × 10 ms
–1 r

(231) A star 2.5 times the mass of the sun = 12000 (2π  1.5)2
and collapsed to a size of 12 km rotates
ac  1.1 × 106 ms –2
with a speed of 1.2 rev. per second.
( Extremely compact stars of this kind As, g > rω 2
are known as neutron stars. Certain
 Therefore, the body will remain struck
stellar objects called pulsars belong to
with the surface of star.
this category ). Will an object placed
on its equator remain stuck to its (232) A seconds pendulum is mounted in a
surface due to gravity ? ( mass of the rocket. Its period of oscillation
sun = 2  1030 kg ). decreases when the rocket

Solution : [NEET : 1991]

 m = 2.5 × Mass of sun (A) comes down with uniform acce-
= 2.5 × 2 × 1030 leration
(B) moves round the earth in a geosta-
= 5 ×1030 kg
tionary orbit
 r = 12 km = 12 × 103 m (C) moves up with a uniform velocity
 f = 1.5 rps (D) moves up with uniform acce-
  ω = 2f = 3 rads–1 leration
(233) A rubber ball is dropped from a
 If the acceleration due to gravity on the
height of 5 m on a planet where the
surface of the star is greater then the
acceleration due to gravity is not
centrilpetal acceleration of the object.
known. On bouncing it rises to 1.8
The object will remain struck to its
m. The ball loses its velocity on
surface.
bouncing by a factor of
v2 [NEET : 1998]
i. e. g >
r (A) 16 / 25 (B) 2 / 5
(C) 3 / 5 (D) 9 / 25
GM
 g = Solution :
r2
(6.67 × 10 –11 ) (5×1030 )
=
(12×103 ) 2
= 2.316 × 1012 ms –2
Ans : (232) D (233) B

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 96 Miscellaneous Problems
 Potential energy = Kinetic energy (234) A body projected vertically from the
earth reaches a height equal to earth's
1 2
mgh = mv radius before returning to the earth.
2 The power exerted by the
 v  2 gh gravitational force is greatest.
[ NEET : 2011 ]
 If h1 and h2 are initial and final heights,
(A) it remains constant all through
then,
(B) at the instant just before the body
v1  2 gh1 , v2  2 gh2 hits the earth.
 Loss in velocity, (C) at the instant just after the body
is projected
v  v1 – v2
(D) at the highest position of the body
 2 gh1 – 2 gh2 (235) Starting from the centre of the earth
 Fractional loss in velocity having radius R, the variation of g
(acceleration due to gravity) is shown
v
 by [ NEET : 2016]
v1
(A) (B)
2 gh1 – 2 gh2

2 gh1

h2
1–
h1
(C) (D)
substituting the values,

v 1.8
1–
v1 5

 1 – 0.36
 1 – 0.6
 0.4 (236) Two bodies of masses m1 and m2 are
v 2 initially at rest at infinite distance
 5 apart. They are then allowed to move
v1
towards each other under mutual
gravitational attraction. Their relative
velocity of approach at a separation
distance r between them is :
Ans : (234) B (235) C
[AIIMS-2008]
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Miscellaneous Problems 97
(237) Two satellites S 1 and S 2 revolve
m1 _ m2 ½
(A) 2G
r  around a planet in the planer pane in
a two different coplanar circular
 
2G ½
(B) m1 + m2 orbits. If its time period becomes
r
17.63 h and 52.9 h respectively, and

 
r ½
(C) the radius of S1 becomes 6400 km,
2G (m 1m 2) then find,
½
 
2G (i) orbital radius of S2 and
(D) m 1m 2
r (ii) the orbital velocities of both the
satellites.
Solution : Solution :
 By applying law of conservation of  T2  r 3
momentum
T12 r13
= 3
m1v1 = m2v2 ... ... ...(i) T22 r2
Where v1 and v2 are velocities of masses 1
m1 and m2 at a distance r from each other  T22 r13  3

r2 =  2 
 By conservation of energy,  T1 
Change in P.E. = Change in K.E. 2
 52.9  3
  (6400 × 103)
Gm1 m2 1 1  17.63 
 m1 v12  m2 v 22 ... ... ...(ii)
r 2 2
r2 = 13, 313 km
Solving eq. (i) and (ii) v1 = r 1 ω

2Gm22 2π
v1  = r1
r( m1  m2 ) T1

2  3.14  6400
=
2Gm12 17.63
v2 
r( m1  m2 ) = 2279 km/h
2πr2
Relative velocity of approach, v2 =
T2

2G  m22  m12  2  3.14  13313

vR  v1  v2    =
r  m1  m2  52.9
v2 = 1580 km/h
2G
  m1  m2 
r
Ans :(236) B

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 98 Miscellaneous Problems
(238) A satellite escaped from the earth to (240) A sphere of 10 kg is placed at each of
revolve around the Earth in a orbital the points A and B. What will be the
radius R. Another satellite revolves in initial acceleration of a small sphere
a orbital radius (1.01) R then how placed at point P; under the effect of
much time period of second satellite these two spheres only.
_11
is more in percentage than that of the G = 6.67  10 Nm2 / kg2
first satellite?
Solution :
 T2  R3

T2 R13 R3
= =
T1 R 32 (1.01)3R 3
Solution :
T2
 0.985
T1

T2 – T1 1 – 0.985

T1 1

ΔT
× 100 = 0.01467 × 100 = 1.5%
T
(239) If the total mass of a system of binary  Suppose F' due to sphere A
stars is M and the time period of
GMm 6 .6 7 × 1 0 – 1 1 × 1 0 × m
rotation of the stars in a circular orbit F '= =
r2 (1 0 × 1 0 – 2 ) 2
about the centre of the mass of the
system is T, then prove that the F' = 6.67 × 10 –8 mN ( P to A )
distance between their components is Force on mass m due to sphere B.
2
d = [(T/2) GM]
F' = 6.67 × 10 –8 mN ( P to B )
Solution :
2
taking components at point p of F'.
mv GMm
 = F' sin components are opposite to each
r r2
other so they are cancel out and F' cos
4π 2 r 2 GM
2
= are in same direction, so they are addup.
T r

3 GmT2 F = 2F' cos

r =
4π 2 5  5
1 =2 × 6.67 × 10 –8 m ×  cos   
 T 2  3 10  10 
r =   GM 
= 6.67 × 10–8 mN
 2π  

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Miscellaneous Problems 99
6.67  10 –8 (A) (B)
F
Acceleration, a  
m 10  10 –3
= 6.67 × 10–6 m s–2

(241) A simple pendulum is oscillating

without damping. When the
displacement of the bob is less than
(C) (D)
maximum, its acceleration vector a is
correctly shown in..... [IIT : 2002]
(A) (B)

(243) A solid sphere of uniform density and

radius 4 units is located with its centre
at the origin O of coordinates. Two
spheres of equal radii 1 unit, with their
(C) (D) centres at A(-2, 0, 0) and B (2, 0, 0)
respectively, are taken out of the solid
leaving behind spherical cavities as
shown in fig. [IIT : 1993]

(242) A spherically symmetric gravitational

system of particles has a mass density

{ for r R

0 (A) The gravitational force due to this
=
0 for r > R object at the origin is zero.
where 0 is a constant. A test mass can

(B) The gravitational force at the point
undergo circular motion under the B (2, 0, 0) is zero.
influence of the gravitational field of (C) The gravitational potential is the
particles. It speed v as a function of same at all points of circle
distance r (0 < r < ) from the centre y2 + z2 = 36.
of the system is represented by......... (D) The gravitational potential is the
[IIT : 2008] same at all points of on the circle
y2 + z 2 = 4
Ans : (241) C (242) C (243) A, C, D

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 100 PHYSICAL QUANTITIES

PHYSICAL QUANTITIES
Sr. Symbol Vector dimensional
No. Physical qunatity Unit
Formula Scalar formula
1 1 _2
1 Gravitational force F Vector N M LT
2 2 _1 3 _2
2 Universal constant of gravitation G Scalar Nm /kg M LT
0 1 _2
3 Gravitational acceleration g Scalar m/s2 MLT
0 1 _2
4 Gravitational Intensity I Vector N/kg MLT
m/s2
0 2 _2
5 Gravitaional potential  Scalar J/kg MLT
1 2 _2
6 Gravitational potential energy U Scalar J MLT
0 1 _1
7 Escape speed ve Scalar m/s MLT
0 0 1
8 Periodic time T Scalar s MLT

CHANGE IN THE ORBIT OF SATELLITE

Quantities Decrease/ Increase Relation with r

Orbital velocity Decreases v 1

r

Time Period Increases T  r3/2

Linear Momentum Decreases P 1

r

Angular Momentum Increases L r

Kinetic Energy Decreases K 1

r

Potential Energy Decreases U  -1

r

Total Energy Increases E  1

r
1
Binding Energy Decreases B. E. 
r

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DEPENDENCY 101
DEPENDENCY
Physical Quantity Dependency
Gravitational force mass of both object.
distance between them ( r )
Universal constant of gravitation (G) mass of large sphere ( M )
mass of small sphere ( m )
angle of twist in the wire in equillibrium
condition. 
The restoring torque per unit twist = ( k)
length of rod = ( l )
distance between their centres in
equillibrium condition ( r ).
Gravitational acceleration (ge) (on earth) mass of earth ( Me )
radius of earth ( Re )
Gravitational acceleration at height h. mass of earth ( Me )
radius of earth ( Re )
height ( h ) from the earth.
Gravitational acceleration at depth. gravitational acceleration on the surface.
depth ( d )
radius of earth ( Re )
Gravitational Intensity. mass of object ( m )
Force on object by gravitational field(F)
Gravitational potential mass of earth ( Me )
( on the surface of earth ) radius of earth ( Re )
Gravitational potential energy mass of earth ( Me )
( object of mass m ) GMe m mass of object ( m )
U=_
R radius of earth ( Re )
mass of earth ( Me )
GMe m
Escape energy = mass of object ( m )
Re
radius of earth ( Re )
total energy satellite mass of earth ( Me )
GMe m
E=_ mass of object ( m )
2r
distance of satellite from centre of earth

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 102 NUMERICAL INFORMATION

Physical Quantity Dependency

Periodic time of satellite mass of earth ( Me )
2
T = (4 2
GM e ) r3 orbital radius ( r )

NUMERICAL INFORMATION
_11
Magnitude of G : 6.67  10 Nm2 / kg2
The radius of earth at equator is nearly 21 km more than the radius at the poles.
Gravitational acceleration on surface of earth is 9.8 m/s2.
24
Mass of earth Me = 6  10 kg
Radius of earth Re = 6400 km
Gravitational acceleration on centre of earth is zero. ( r=0)
Gravitational potential on surface earth  = _ 0.63  10 J / kg
8

Gravitational potential at infinite distance from centre of earth = 0

Escape speed / velocity on surfacae of earth, ve = 11.2 km/s
Escape velocity on the surface of moon ve = 2.3 km/s.
Which is nearly ( 1 / 5 ) times the escape speed of the earth's surface.
8
Velocity of light c = 3  10 m/s
The periodic time of moon's revolution around the earth is 27.3 days.
Height of geo-stationary satellite h = 35860 km.
Polar satellites are at height 800 kg.
Time period of polar satellite is nearly 100 min.
2
Value of T / a3 for some planets
( For information only )
2
a T T /a 3
Planet
m year year2/m3
10
_34
Mercury 5.79  10 0.24 2.95  10
10
_34
Earth 15  10 1.0 2.96  10
10
_34
Mars 22.8  10 1.88 2.98  10
10
_34
Saturn 143  10 29.5 2.98  10

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GRAPHS 103
GRAPHS
The graph of g ( r )  r (solid sphere) The graph of I  r (solid sphere)

The graph of   r (hollow sphere) The graph of log r  log T of different

satellites around a planet which has
orbital radius r and the corresponding
periodic time T.

2
The graph of the kinetic energy of a The graph of T  r3.
satellite EK and its orbital radius r.

Potenital energy, Kinetic Energy, total

energy  Distance (r)

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 104 GRAVITATIONAL POTENTIAL FOR DIFFERENT BODIES
Gravitational Potential for Different Bodies
(1) Intensity due to uniform solid sphere

GRAPHS
Outside theOn the surface Inside the
surface r=R surface
r>R r<R

GM GM GMr
I= I= I=
r2 R2 R3

(2) Intensity due to spherical shell

GRAPHS
Outside the
On the surface Inside the
surface surface
r=R
r>R r<R

GM GM
I= I= I=0
r2 R2

(3) Intensity due to uniform circular ring

GRAPHS
At a point on its axis At the centre of the
ring

I=
GMr
I=0
(a + r2)3/2
2

(4) Intensity due to uniform disc

GRAPHS
At a point on its axis At the centre of
the disc

2GMr 1– 1
a2 r r2 + a 2 I=0

2GM
a2

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GRAVITATIONAL POTENTIAL FOR DIFFERENT BODIES 105

Gravitational Potential for Different Bodies

(1) Potential due to uniform ring

GRAPHS
At a point on its axis At the centre of
the ring

GM GM
V = V =
a2 + r 2 a

(2) Potential due to spherical shell

GRAPHS
Outside the
On the surface Inside the
surface surface
r=R
r>R r<R

-GM -GM -GM

V= V=
r R R

(3) Potential due to uniform solid sphere

GRAPHS
Outside the On the surface Inside the surface
surface r=R r<R
r>R

-GM
r
Vsurface =
-GM
R V=
-GM
2R
 
r 

3 
R 
at the centre (r = 0)
-3 GM
Vcentre =
2 R
(max.)

3
Vcentre = V
2 surface

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 106
Notes Notes

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 107
Notes Notes

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 108
Notes Notes

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