2017-18 100 &

op kers
Class 11 T
By E ran culty
-JE Fa r
IIT enior emie .
S fP r es
o titut
Ins

PHYSICS
FOR JEE MAIN & ADVANCED
SECOND
EDITION

Exhaustive Theory
(Now Revised)

Formula Sheet
9000+ Problems
based on latest JEE pattern

2500 + 1000 (New) Problems

of previous 35 years of
AIEEE (JEE Main) and IIT-JEE (JEE Adv)

5000+Illustrations and Solved Examples

Detailed Solutions
of all problems available

Topic Covered Plancess Concepts

Tips & Tricks, Facts, Notes, Misconceptions,
Gravitation Key Take Aways, Problem Solving Tactics

PlancEssential
Questions recommended for revision
 10. G R AV I TAT I O N

1. INTRODUCTION
Have you ever wondered whether we would still be studying about with Gravitation if a
stone had fallen on Newton’s head instead of an apple? Anyways, the real question is,
why does an apple fall down rather than go upward?

2. NEWTON’S LAW OF UNIVERSAL GRAVITATION

“Every particle of matter in the universe attracts every other particle with a force equal
to the product of masses of particles and inversely proportional to the square of the
distance between them”
If m1 and m2 are two point masses separated by a distance r, the gravitational force of Figure 10.1
attraction F is given by
m1m2 r
F ∝
r2
Gm1m2 m1 m1
F =
2
r Figure 10.2
Where G is a constant and is called the Universal gravitational
constant.
Magnitude (and unit) of G : 6.67 × 10−11newton. 22
Newton.mm kg2 2
//kg
Dimension of G : M-1L3T-2

PLANCESS CONCEPTS
The direction of force F is independent of the medium, not affected by the presence of the other bodies
and acts along the line joining the two particles.
If two persons come very close to each other such that the distance between them is almost 0, the two
persons should experience a high force of attraction. Observe keenly the value of G. It’s of order -11.
The Universal gravitational constant G is an experimental value calculated by Cavendish 71 years after
the law was formulated.
Always remember Gravitational Force is conservative in nature i.e. work done doesn’t depend on the
path taken and depends only on the end points.
Vaibhav Gupta (JEE 2009, AIR 54)
 1 0 . 2 | Gravitation

Illustration 1: Two particles of masses 1.0 kg and 2.0 kg are placed at a separation of 50 cm. Assuming that the
only forces acting on the particles are their mutual gravitation, find the initial accelerations of the two particles.
 (JEE MAIN)
Gm1m2
Sol: The force of mutual gravitation acting on particles is F = . As the particle are accelerating under the
r2
force of gravitation, the acceleration is obtained using Newton’s laws of motion.
The force of gravitation exerted by one particle on the other is
N − m2
6.67 × 10−11 × (1.0kg) × (2.0kg)
Gm1m2 kg2
F= = = 5.3 × 10−10 N.
r2 (0.5m) 2

F 5.3 × 10−10 N
The acceleration of 1.0 kg particle is a=
1 = = 5.3 × 10−10 ms−2
m1 1.0kg

This acceleration is towards the 2.0 kg particles. The acceleration of the 2.0 kg particle is

F 5.3 × 10−10 N
a2
= = = 2.65 × 10−10 ms−2
m2 2.0kg

This acceleration is towards the 1.0 kg particle.

Illustration 2: Spheres of the same material and same radius r are touching each other.
Show that gravitational force between them is directly proportional to r 4 . (JEE MAIN)

Sol: The force of gravitation is directly proportional to the masses of the spheres. As the
spheres are having the same masses, and mass m ∝ V ⇒ m ∝ r 3 thus the proportionality
between the force and distance is easily established.
As the spheres are made of same material, and density so the mass of each sphere is
2r
m1=m2= (volume) (destiny) Figure 10.3

4 3
=  3 πr  ρ
 

4  4 
G  πr 3   πr 3  ρ2
Gm1m2 3  3 
=F = or F ∝ r4
(2r)2 4r 2

Illustration 3: Three particles each of mass m, are located at the vertices of an equilateral a/2
Am
triangle of side a. At what speed will they move if they all revolve under the influence of
their gravitational force of attraction in a circular orbit circumscribing the triangle while
30 o

m
still preserving the equilateral triangle?  (JEE MAIN)
Sol: The net force of gravitation on any one particle is due to other two particles. This r
O
gravitational force provides the necessary centripetal force to the particles to move in the
Cm Bm
circular orbit around the equilateral triangle.
    GM2   GM2 
F=A FAB + FAC
= 2  cos30=
°  3 Figure 10.4
2 2
 a   a 

a mv 2 mv 2 3 GM2 GM
r= , Now = F ; Or = 3;
= ∴v
3 r a a2 a
 P hysi cs | 10.3

3. GRAVITATIONAL FIELD
How would a particle interact with the surrounding or with other particles?
Every particle creates a field and when the other particle comes in to this particle’s field, there would be an
interaction between the particles.
The intensity of the field i.e. how intensely
 would it attract another particle in its field is called Gravitational field
intensity or Gravitational field strength E . It is defined as the force experienced by a unit mass placed at a distance
 F
r due to mass M, i.e. E =
M

PLANCESS CONCEPTS
Always remember, it is a vector quantity and should be added vectorially when calculating Gravitational
field intensity at a point by one or more masses.
Vaibhav Krishnan (JEE 2009, AIR 22)

4. GRAVITATIONAL FIELD INTENSITY

(a) Due to a point mass M: M
r
O P
GMm F GM GM 
F
= ; = E
= ; =E E
r 2 m r 2
r2
(b) Due to uniform ring of Mass M and radius a on its axis. Figure 10.5

Consider any particle of mass dm on the ring, say at point A. The distance of this particle from P is
 Gdm
AP= z= a2 + r 2 .The gravitational field at P is dm is along PA and its magnitude is dE =
z2
Gdm
The component along PO is dEcos = α cos α
z2 A
2 2
The net gravitational field at P due to the ring is Z = a +r
a

Gdm Gcos α GMcos α GMr
=
E ∫ z2= cos α
z2
= ∫ dm =
z2 2 2 2
3
O r P
(a + r )
The field is directed towards the center of the ring.
Figure 10.6
(c) Due to uniform disc of mass M and radius a on its axis.
Let us draw a circle of radius x with the center at O. We draw
another concentric circle of radius x+dx. The part of the disc a
enclosed between these two circles can be treated as a uniform
ring of radius x. The point P is on its axis at a distance r from

the center. The area of this ring is 2πxdx .The area of the whole o P
r
disc is πa2 . As the disc is uniform, the mass of this ring is x

M 2Mxdx
dm= 2πxdx = dx
2
πa a2
The gravitational field at P due to the ring is, by equation, Figure 10.7
 2Mxdx 
G r
 a2  2GMr xdx
= dE =
( ) )
32 2
r 2 + x2 a  r 2 + x2 32


 1 0 . 4 | Gravitation

As x varies from 0 to a, the rings cover up the whole disc. The field due to each of these is in the same direction
PO. Thus, the net field due to the whole disc is along PO and its magnitude is
a a
2GMr xdx 2GMr xdx
= E ∫= 2 2 2 32 ∫
a 0 (r + x2 )3 2
2 2
...(i) …(i)
o a (r + x )

2 2 2
z then 2x dx=2z dz and
Let r + x =

xdx zdz 1 1 1
∫ (r2 + x2 )3 2 =∫ =∫ dz =− =−
z 3
z 2 z r − x2
2

a
2GMr  1  2GMr 1 1 
From
= (i) E  − =   − 
2
a  r + x  0
2 2 a  r
2
r + a2
2 

Equation may be expressed in terms of the angle θ subtended by a radius of the disc at P as,
2GM
E
= (1 − cos θ). ad
a2
(d) Due to uniform thin spherical shell of mass M A
B z
and radius a from the triangle OAP, d
 
z 2 = a2 + r 2 − 2ar cos θ or
0 P
a sin 
2z=
dz 2ar sin θdθ
zdz
or sin θdθ = .  …(ii)
ar
Figure 10.8
Also from the triangle OAP,
z 2 + r 2 − a2
a2 = z 2 + r 2 − 2zr cos α or cos α = .  … (iii)
2zr

GM  a2 − r 2  GM  a2 − r 2 
Putting from (ii) and (iii) in (i),
= dE 
4ar 2 
1− 
z 2 
dz or
= ∫ dE 
4ar 2 
z +
z 


Case I: P is outside the shell (r > a)

In this case, z varies from r – a to r + a. The field due to the whole shell is
r+a
GM  a2 − r 2  GM
E= z +  =
4ar 2  z r − a r
2

We see that the shell may be treated as a point particle of the same mass placed at its center to calculate the
gravitational field at an external point.
Case II: P is inside the shell
a+r
GM  a2 −r 2 
In this case, z varies from a - r to a + r. The field at P due to the whole shell is E = z +  0
=
4ar 2  z  a − r
Hence the field inside a uniform spherical shell is zero.
(e) Due to uniform solid sphere of mass M and radius a
(i) At an external point r (>a): Let us divide the sphere into thin spherical
shells each centered at O. Let the mass of one such shell be dm. To
o r
calculate the gravitational field at P, we can replace the shell by a single P
particle of mass dm placed at the shell that is at O. a
Gdm
The field at P due to this shell is then dE =
r2
Figure 10.9
 P hysi cs | 10.5

Towards PO. The field due to the whole sphere may be obtained by summing the fields of all the shells
making the solid sphere.
Gdm G GM
∫=
dE ∫
2 ∫
Thus, =E = dm
=
2
r r r2
Thus, a uniform sphere may be treated as a single particle of equal mass placed at its center for calculating
the gravitational field at an external point.
(ii) At an internal point r (<a):
r
Suppose the point P is inside the solid sphere (See Fig 10.10). In this case r<a. a
The sphere may be divided into thin spherical shells all centered at O.
o A
Suppose the mass of such a shell is dm. If the radius of the shell is less than r, the P
Gdm
point is outside the shell. The field due to the shell is dE = along PO.
r2
If the radius of the shell considered is greater than r, the point P is internal and Figure 10.10
the field due to such a shell is zero. The total field due to the whole sphere is
obtained by summing the fields due to all the shells. As all these fields are along
the same direction, the net field is

GdM G
=E ∫=
dE ∫ =
r2 r2
∫ dm  ...(i) … (i)

Only the masses of the shells with radii less than r should be added to get
= z a2 + r 2 . These shells form
4 3 4
πr .The volume of the whole sphere is πa3 . As
a solid sphere of radius r. The volume of this sphere is
3 3
M  4 3  Mr3
the given sphere is uniform, the mass of the sphere of radius r is  πr  =3
4 33  a
πa
Mr 3 G Mr3 GM 3
Thus, ∫ dm = 3 and by =(i) E = r.
a r 2 a3 a3

The gravitational field due to a uniform sphere at an internal point is proportional to the distance of the
point from the center of the sphere.

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

One could assume the whole mass is concentrated at the center of mass (now assume it as point mass)
for calculating the gravitation field at an external point for spherical shell, sphere nevertheless of mass
distribution (uniformly/non-uniformly)
Mass distribution should be a function of radial distance only.
Remember the Gauss theorem in Electricity?
 
Equivalent Gauss theorem for gravitational field is ∫ E.dS =−4πG(m) , m=enclosed mass I guess now you
could deduce the note above. Can you?
Nivvedan (JEE 2009, AIR 113)

Illustration 4: Three concentric shells of homogenous mass distribution of masses M1 , M2 and M3 having radii a,
b and c respectively are situated as shown in Fig. 10.11. Find the force on a particle of mass m  (JEE MAIN)
(a) When the particle is located at Q.
(b) When the particle is located at P.
 1 0 . 6 | Gravitation

Sol: For a particle of mass m, lying at a distance r from the center of the spherical M3
 GMm 
shell of mass M and radius r, the gravitational force of attraction is   . If
M2
2
 r 
M1
the particle is lying inside the spherical shell then the force of gravitation on it x
is zero. C
y
 GMm 
Attraction at an external point due to spherical shell of mass M is   while
 r2 
at an internal point is zero.
(a) Point is external to shell M1 , M2 and M3 , Figure 10.11

GM1m GM2m GM3m Gm

So, force at Q will be Fq
= + + = (M1 + M2 + M3 )
2 2
y y y2 y2
GM1m GM2m Gm
(b) Force at P will be Fp
= + +0
= (M1 + M2 )
2 2
x x x2

Illustration 5: A uniform ring of mass m and radius a is placed directly above a uniform sphere of mass M and of
equal radius. The center of the ring is at a distance 3a from the center of the sphere. Find the gravitational force
exerted by the sphere on the ring. (JEE ADVANCED)
Sol: The field due to ring at the center of the sphere can be found easily, as the center of m a
the sphere is lying at the axis of the ring. From Newton’s third law of motion the force on
the sphere due to the ring will be equal in magnitude to the force exerted by the sphere on
the ring. 3a
The gravitational field at any point on the ring due to the sphere is equal to the field due to a
a single particle of mass M placed at the center of the sphere. Thus, the force on the ring due
M
to the sphere is also equal to the force on it by a particle of mass M placed at this point. By
Newton’s third law, it is equal to the force on the particle by the ring.
Figure 10.12
Now the gravitational field due to the ring at a distance d = 3a on its axis is
G md 3 Gm
=E =
(a + d2 )3 2
2
8 a2
3 GMm
The force on a particle of mass M placed here is F=ME = . Thus we have used the formula for field due
to a ring. 8 a2

This is also the force due to the sphere on the ring.

5. EARTH’S GRAVITATIONAL FIELD

We have seen what gravitational field is and how an object would interact with other objects. Earth is no different
as it creates a gravitational field and interacts with us.
g = F m (g should be written as g bar and F as F bar. Take care of that)

6. VARIATION IN THE VALUE OF ACCELERATION DUE TO GRAVITY (g)

Variation in the value of g: The value of g varies from place to place on the surface of earth. It also varies as we
go above or below the surface of the earth. Thus, value of g depends on the following factors:-
 P hysi cs | 10.7

(a) Shape of the earth: The earth is not a perfect sphere. It is somewhat flat at the two poles. The equatorial
radius is approximately 21 km more than the polar radius. And since
GM 1
g = Or g∝
2
R R2
The value of g is minimum at the equator and maximum at the poles.

(b) Height above the surface of the earth: The gravitational force on mass m due to Earth of mass M at height
h above the surface of earth is
m
GMm
F= h
(R + h )
2

F GM
So the acceleration due to gravity is g=
′ =
m (R + h)2
GM g GM R
This can also be written as, g′ = Or g′ = as =g
 h
2
 h
2
R2 M
R 2 1 +  1 + 
 R  R Figure 10.13
Thus, g′ < g i.e., the value of acceleration due to gravity g goes on decreasing as we go
above the surface of earth. Further,
−2
 h  2h 
g′ g 1 + 
= or g′ ≈ g 1 −  if h<<R
 R  R 

So on going above the surface of the earth, acceleration due to gravity decreases. Note that mass is always
constant.

(c) Depth below the surface of the earth: Let an object of mass m is situated at a
h
depth h below the earth’s surface. Its distance from the center of earth is (R - h). m
This mass is situated at the surface of the inner solid sphere and lies inside the outer
spherical shell. The gravitational force of attraction on a mass inside a spherical
shell is always zero. Therefore, the object experiences gravitational attraction only O
due to inner solid sphere.
R
 M 4 (R − h)3
The mass of this sphere
= is M′   π(R − h)3 or M′ = M
 4 3 πR 3  3 R3
  Figure 10.14
GM′ m GMm(R − h) F

= F = and g′ =
(R − h)2
R 3 m

 h
Substituting the values, we get =
g′ g 1 −  i.e., g′ < g
 R
(d) Axial rotation of the earth: Let us consider a particle P at rest on the surface of y
the earth, in latitude φ . Then the pseudo force acting on the particles is mrω2
in outward direction. The true acceleration g is acting towards the center O of r P
the earth. Thus, the effective accelerating g′ is the resultant of g and rω2 or
 g’
g′
= g2 + (rω2 )2 + 2g(rω2 )cos(180 − φ) O X
R

or ′
g= g2 + r 2 ω4 − 2grω2 cos φ  ... (i)
Figure 10.15
2 4 2π 2π
Here, the term r ω comes out to be too small as =
ω =
T 24 × 3600
1 0 . 8 | Gravitation

rad/s is small. Hence, this term can be ignored. Also,

= r R cos φ . Therefore, Eq. (i) can be written as
g′ = (g2 − 2gRω2 cos2 φ)1 2

 2Rω2 cos2 φ   Rω2 cos2 φ 

= g 1 − 2 g 1 −
1= 


 g  g
   

Thus, g′ = g − Rω2 cos2 φ Rω2 is almost 0.03 m / s2

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

They is always a decrease in the value of acceleration due to gravity from that of g at the surface
irrespective of the condition.
If earth were to rotate faster ‘g’ would decrease at all points except at the poles. Guessed it? φ is 90 at
poles. Also remember φ is 0 at equator.
Chinmay S Purandare (JEE 2012, AIR 698)

Illustration 6: Suppose the earth increases its speed of rotation. At what new time period will the weight of a body
on the equator become zero? Take g = 10 m/s2 and radius of earth R = 6400km.  (JEE MAIN)
Sol: When rotational speed of earth is increased, the centrifugal force acting on the particle at rest at equator also
increases. At the equator, the centrifugal force is opposite to the force of gravity. Thus the apparent value of g is
g 2π
g' = g − Rω2 . For mass of body to be zero at the equator, g’ = 0 i.e. ω = . The time period of rotation is T = .
R ω
The weight will become zero, when g′ = 0 or g − Rω2 =0 (on the equator g′ = g − Rω2 )

g 2π g R
or
= ω ; ∴
= or T=2π
R T R g

6400 × 103
2π
Substituting the values, T= 10 h or T=1.4 h
3600

Thus, the new time period should be 1.4 h instead of 24 h for the weight of a body to be zero on the equator.

Illustration 7: A simple pendulum has a time period exactly 2 s when used in a laboratory at North Pole. What will
be the time period if the same pendulum is used in a laboratory at equator? Account for the earth’s rotation only.
GM
Take= g = 9.8m / s2 and radius of earth=6400 km. (JEE ADVANCED)
R2

Sol: The time period of simple pendulum is given by t = 2π where  is the length of pendulum. At the equator
g
value of acceleration due to gravity ‘g’ is different than at the pole. The apparent value of g is g' = g − Rω2 . Thus
the time periods will be different.
Consider the pendulum in its mean position at the North Pole. As the pole is on the axis of rotation, the bob is
GMm
in equilibrium. Hence in the mean position, the tension T is balanced by earth’s attraction. Thus,
= T = mg.
R2
 
The time period t is t =2π =2π  ... (i) … (i)
T /m g
 P hysi cs | 10.9

2π radian
At equator, the lab and the pendulum rotate with the earth at angular velocity ω = in a circle of radius
equal to 6400 km. Using Newton’s second law, 24 hour

GMm
− T′ =ω2R or, =
T′ m(g − ω2R)
2
R
Where T′ is the tension in the string.
The time period will be

l l
t′ =
2π 2π
=  ...(ii) … (ii)
(T′ / m) g − ω2R
By (i) and (ii)
−1 2
t′ g  ω 2R   ω2R 
= = 1 −  or, =
t′ t 1 + 
t g − ω 2R  g   2g 

Putting the values, t ' = 2.004 seconds.

7. GRAVITATIONAL POTENTIAL ENERGY

Suppose I would like to move a particle form another particle’s field, work is either done against the gravitational
field or extracted from it. This negative work is called as Gravitational Potential energy.
f  
Gravitational force is a conservative in nature. Work done by gravitational field= Uf − Ui =− ∫ F.dr.
i
Let a particle of mass m 1 be kept fixed at a point A (See r
Fig 10.16) and another particle of mass m 2 is taken from
a point B to a point C. Initially, the distance between the r1 dr
particles is AB = r1 and finally it becomes AC = r2 . We have
A
to calculate the change in potential energy of the system m1 B D E C
of the two particles as the distance changes from r1 to r2 . r2
Consider a small displacement when the distance between
Figure 10.16
the particles changes from r to r + dr. In the Fig 10.16, this
corresponds to the second particle going from D to E.
Gm1m2 
The force on the second particle is F = along DA
r2
Gm1m2
The work done by the gravitational force in the displacement is dW = − dr.
r2
Gm m
The change in potential energy of the two-particle system during this displacement is dU =
−dW = 1 2 dr.
r2
The change in potential energy as the distance between the particles from r1 to r2 is
r2 r2 r
Gm1m2 1  1 2 1 1
U(r2 ) − U(r1 ) = ∫ dU = ∫ dr = Gm1m2 ∫ dr = Gm1m2  −  = Gm1m2  − 
r2  r r1  r1 r2 
2
r1 r1 r

This is the change in potential energy of the particles when moved from B to C.
Suppose the same particles which are of mass m 1 and m 2 are very far from each other and we need to calculate
the change in potential energy when the distance between them becomes r. Then using above formulae,

 1 1 Gm1m2
we get U(r) − U(∞ ) =Gm1m2  −  =−
∞ r  r
1 0 . 1 0 | Gravitation

We make a standard assumption that the potential energy of the two-particle system to be zero when the distance
between them is infinity. This means that we choose U(∞ ) =0.
Note: Just as one assumed current to be in opposite direction with the flow of electrons, the potential at infinity is
assumed to be zero.

8. GRAVITATIONAL POTENTIAL
The potential at a point may also be defined as the work done per unit mass by an external agent in bringing a
particle slowly from the reference point to the given point. Generally the reference point is chosen at infinity so
that the potential at infinity is zero.

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

By slowly I mean, the particle is moved in such a way that there is no increase in Kinetic energy.
Since the Kinetic energy of the particle is zero, from the work energy theorem, the total work done
is change in potential energy. So, what is the difference between the Potential and Potential energy?
Observe it is the work done per unit mass.
Nitin Chandrol (JEE 2012, AIR 134)

UB − UA
We define the “change in potential” VB − VA between the two points as VB − VA =
m
Calculation of some Gravitational potentials:
(a) Potential due to point mass M at a point P which is at a distance r
(b) (ii) Potential due to Uniform ring of radius “a” and mass M at a point P on its axis.
r
U(r) − U( ∞ )
(c) V(r) =
m M
A P
GMm GM
But U (r) – U (∞) = − so that V= − Figure 10.17
r r
GM
The gravitational potential due to a point mass M at a distance r is −
r
(d) Consider any small part of the ring of mass dm. The point P is at a distance=z a2 + r 2 from dm.

GdM Gdm
dV =
− =
− ; a z
r a2 + r 2

O r P
Gdm G GM

V = ∫ dV = ∫− = − ∫ dm = −
a2 + r 2 a 2+ r 2 a2 + r 2

Figure 10.18

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

Remember that potential is a scalar quantity and one can directly add the contributions due to each of
the point masses.
Potential due to Uniform Thin spherical shell and due to Uniform sphere can be derived similarly and
here is the table of all the results.
 P hysi cs | 10.11

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

Potential Gravitational Field

Point Mass at a distance r

−GM −GM 
er
r r2

GMr

(a )
32
2
−GM + r2
Uniform Ring at a point on its axis
a2 + r 2
towards center of ring

−GM 0 (inside)
(inside)
a
Uniform Thin spherical shell
−GM GM
(outside) (outside)
r r2

GMr
−GMr 2 (inside)
(Inside) a3
a3
Uniform Solid Sphere
GM
(outside)
−GM
2a3
(3a 2
−r 2
) (outside) r2

Only the magnitudes of gravitational field are written. As the gravitational force is attractive in nature,
the direction could be easily found out.
Gravitational force, potential and potential energy all are taken with negative sign because the
gravitational force is always attractive in nature.
∂V ∂V ∂V
Ex = − , Ey = − and Ez = −
∂x ∂y ∂z

  r2  

( ) ()
Potential using the field for various cases V r2 − V r1 =
− ∫ E .dr.

r1

B Rajiv Reddy (JEE 2012, AIR 11)

Illustration 8: A particle of mass 1 kg is kept on the surface of a uniform sphere of mass 20 kg and radius 1.0 m.
Find the work to be done against the gravitational force between them to take the particle away from the sphere.
 (JEE MAIN)
Sol: The work done in moving a particle away from the sphere will be equal to the change in gravitational potential
energy of the particle in the gravitational field of the sphere.
GM (6.67 × 10−11 )(20)
Potential at the surface of sphere, V=
− =
− −1.334 × 10−9 J kg
J kg =
R 1
 1 0 . 1 2 | Gravitation

i.e., 1.334 × 10−9 J work is obtained to bring a mass of 1 kg from infinity to the surface of sphere. Hence, the same
amount of work will have to be done to take the particle away from the surface of sphere. Thus,= W 1.334 × 10−9 J

Illustration 9: A particle is fired vertically upward with a speed of 9.8 km/s. Find the maximum height attained by
the particle. Radius of earth = 6400 km and g at the surface=9.8 m/s2. Consider only earth’s gravitation.
 (JEE MAIN)
Sol: Particle initially moves with kinetic energy only in upwards direction opposite to the gravitation pull of earth.
The loss in its kinetic energy is equal to the gain in the potential energy. At the highest point of its vertical motion,
kinetic energy is converted completely into potential energy.

GMm
At the surface of the earth, the potential energy of the earth-particle system is − with usual symbols. The
R
1 2
kinetic energy is mv 0 where v0 = 9.8 km/s. At the maximum height the kinetic energy is zero. If the maximum
2
GMm
height reached is H, the potential energy of the earth-particle system at this instant is − . Using conservation
R +H
GMm 1 2 GMm
of energy, − + mv 0 = −
R 2 R +H
v 2 −gR 2 R2 v2 R2
Writing GM = gR 2 and dividing by m, −gR + 0 = or = R − 0 or R + H = Putting the
2 R +H R +H 2g v 20
values of R, v 0 and g on the right side, R−
2g

( 6400km=
) ( 6400km )
2 2

R +H
= = 27300km or H =(27300 − 6400)km =20900km.
(9.8kms ) 1500km
2
−1

6400km −
2 × 9.8ms−2

Illustration 10: Two particles of equal masses go round a circle of radius R under the action of their mutual
gravitational attraction. Find the speed of each particle. (JEE MAIN)
Sol: As the particles go around the circle they always remain diametrically opposite to each other. To sustain their
respective circular motion the necessary centripetal acceleration is provided by the gravitation force of attraction
between them.
The particles will always remain diametrically opposite so that the force on each particle will be directed along the
Gm2
radius. Consider the motion of one of the particles. The force on the particle is F = . If Thus, by Newton’s law,
4R 2
Gm2 mv 2 Gm
= or v=
4R 2 R 4R

9. BINDING ENERGY m
It is the energy due to which a system is bound. Suppose the mass m is placed on the surface

of earth. The radius of the earth is R and its mass M. Then, the kinetic energy of the particle K=0 R
M
GMm
and potential energy of the particle is UU == − .
R
GMm GMm Figure 10.19
Therefore, the total mechanical energy of the particle is, E = K + U = 0 − or E = −
R R
It is due to this energy, the particle is attached to the earth. If this amount of energy is supplied
to the particle in any form (normally kinetic), the particle no longer remains bound to the earth. It goes out of the
gravitational field of earth.
 P hysi cs | 10.13

Illustration 11: Assuming the earth to be a sphere of uniform mass destiny, calculate the energy needed to
completely disassemble it against the gravitational pull amongst its constituent particles. Given the product of
2
2.5 × 1031 kgm, g =.
mass and radius of the earth = 10m s  (JEE MAIN)

Sol: The work done to completely disassemble the earth will be equal to change in potential energy of the earth.
Initial potential energy is negative and final will be zero.
3M
If M and R are the mass and radius of the earth, then the density ρ of the earth is ρ =
4 πR 3

The earth may be supposed to be made up of a large number of thin concentric spherical shells. It can be
disassembled by removing such shells one by one. When a sphere of radius x is left, the energy needed to remove
Gm1m2
a shell of thickness lying between x and x + dx is dU =
x
4 3
Where m 1 = mass of the sphere of radius x= πx p,
3
4 x2dxρ
and m 2 = mass of the spherical shell of radius x and thickness dx =π
4
3

(
G  πx3ρ  4 πx2dxρ )
16 2 2 4
∴ dw = dU =   = Gπ ρ x dx
x 3
2
16Gπ2ρ2 R5 16 2  
R
16Gπ2ρ2 4 M 3 GM2
 R5 =
∫
Total energy required U = dU =
3 ∫ x dx = =
3 5 15
Gπ
 ( 4 3 ) πR 3  5 R
0  
3 3
= gMR = × 10 × 2.5 × 1031 =1.5 × 1032 J.
5 5

10. ESCAPE VELOCITY

The minimum velocity needed to take a particle infinitely away from the earth is called the escape velocity. On the
surface of earth its value 11.2 km/s.
GMm
As we discussed the binding energy of a particle on the surface of earth kept at rest is . If this much energy
R
in the form of kinetic energy is supplied to the particle, it leaves the gravitational field of the earth. So, if v e is the
escape velocity of the particle, then

1 GMm 2GM GM
mv 2e = or ve = or v e = 2gR as g =
2 R R R2

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

Escape velocity is independent of angle of projection.

Anand K (JEE 2011, AIR 47)

Illustration 12: Calculate the escape velocity from the surface of moon. The mass of the moon is 7.4 × 1022 kg and
= 1.74 × 106 m 
radius (JEE MAIN)

2GMm
Sol: Escape velocity of any object placed on moon is given by v e =
Rm
1 0 . 1 4 | Gravitation

2GMm
Escape velocity from the surface of moon is v e =
Rm

2 × 6.67 × 10−11 × 7.4 × 1022

Substituting the values, we have ve = = 2.4 × 103 m s or2.4 km/s
1.74 × 106

11. SATELLITES
Satellites are generally of two types:
Natural Satellites: Moon is a natural satellite of the earth.
Artificial Satellite: These are launched in to space by humans and they help us in weather forecasting,
telecommunications etc. The path of these satellites is elliptical with the center of earth at a focus.

Orbital Speed: The necessary centripetal force to the satellite is being

provided by the gravitational force exerted by the earth on the satellite.
Thus,
VO
GM 1
∴ vo = or v o ∝ M r
r r M
R Satellite
Hence, the orbital speed ( v o ) of the satellite decreases as the orbital
Earth
radius (r ) of the satellite increases. Further, the orbital speed of a satellite
GM ve
close to the earth’s surface (r ≈ R ) is,=
vo = gR
= ;
R 2 Figure 10.20
Substituting v e = 11.2km / s ; v o = 7.9km / s

2πr 2πr r3
Period of Revolution: The period of revolution (T) is given by T = or T = or T = 2π
vo GM GM
r
r3
Or T = 2π (as GM= gR 2 )
gR 2

GMm
Energy of Satellite: The potential energy of the system is U= −
r

1 1  GM 
The kinetic energy of the satellite=
is, K = mv 20 m 
2 2  r 
1 GMm K
or K =
2 r
GMm GMm r
The total energy is, E =K +U =− or E= − E
2r 2r E=K+U
U
This energy is constant and negative, i.e., the system is closed. The farther the
satellite from the earth the greater its total energy.
Figure 10.21
 P hysi cs | 10.15

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

The velocity of a satellite is independent of its mass. It only depends upon the mass of the planet around
which it revolves.
What if the time period of rotation of satellite is exactly 24 hours just as the time period of rotation of
earth? Its position w.r.t earth is fixed right! Try calculating the distance from the earth’s surface. By the
way, these satellites are called Geo-stationary (stationary w.r.t earth) satellites.
Yashwanth Sandupatla (JEE 2012, AIR 821)

Illustration 13: Consider an earth’s satellite so positioned that it appears stationary to an observer on earth and
serves the purpose of a fixed relay station for international transmission of TV and other communications. What
would be the height at which the satellite should be positioned and what would be the direction of its motion?
Given that the radius of the earth is 6400 km and acceleration due to gravity on the surface of the earth is
9.8 m/s2.  (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: For any artificial satellite to appear stationary with respect to a point on earth, it must rotate with the same
angular speed as that of the earth and in the direction of motion as of the earth. The angular velocity of the satellite
at height h above earth surface is given by ω = GM / r 3 where r=R+h.
For a satellite to remain above a given point on the earth’s surface, it must rotate with the same angular velocity
as the point on earth’s surface. Therefore the satellite must rotate in the equatorial plane from west to east with a
time period of 24 hours.
Now as for a satellite orbital velocity is v 0 = GM / r
 1 
2πr r r 2
 2 3 
T == 2πr 2πr
= (as g = GM R ) or r =gR  =4.23 × 107m =42300km
vo GM gR 2  4 π2 
 
So the height of the satellite above the surface of earth, h =r − R = 42300 − 6400 ≈ 36000km

[The speed of a geostationary satellite v o = R g r = rω = 3.1 km s ]

Illustration 14: Two satellites S1 and S2 revolve round a planet in coplanar circular orbits in the same sense. Their
periods of revolution are 1 h and 8 h respectively. The radius of the orbit of S1 is 10 4 km. When S2 is closest to S1
find (a) the speed of S2 relative to S1 and (b) the angular speed of S2 as observed by an astronaut in S1. 
 (JEE ADVANCED)
Sol: According to Kepler’s laws of planetary motion, T2 ∝ R 3 . The orbital velocity of V1
2πR
the satellite v 0 = = Rω where ω is the angular velocity of revolution of satellite. R2
T
Let the mass of the planet be M, that of S1 be m1 and of S2 be m2 .
Let the radius of the orbit of S1 be R1( = 10 4 km) and so S2 be R 2 . R1 S1 S2
Let v1 and v 2 be the linear speeds of S1 and S2 with respect to the planet. The given
Fig 10.22 shows the situation.
As the square of the time period is proportional to the cube of the radius,
Figure 10.22
3 2 2
 R2   T2   8h  R2
=  =  =  64 or = 4 or R 2= 4R1= 4 × 10 4 km
 R1  T
 1 1h
  R1
 1 0 . 1 6 | Gravitation

Now the time period of S1 is 1 h.

2πR1 2πR1
So, = 1h or v1 = = 2π × 10 4 kmh−1
v1 1h
2πR 2
Similarly, v2 = = π × 10 4 kmh−1
8h
(a) At the closest separation, they are moving in the same direction. Hence the speed of S2 with respect to S1 is
| v 2 − v1 |= π × 10 4 kmh−1

(b) As seen from S1 , the satellite S2 is at a distance R 2 − R1 =3 × 10 4 km at the closest separation. Also, it is moving
at π × 10 4 kmh−1 in a direction perpendicular to the line joining them.
π × 10 4 kmh−1 π
Thus, the angular speed of S2 as observed=
by S1 is ω = radh−1
4
3 × 10 km 3

Illustration 15: A spaceship is launched into a circular orbit close to the earth’s surface. What additional
velocity is now to be added to the spaceship in the orbit to overcome the gravitational pull? Radius of earth
= 6400
= km, g 9.8 m s2 . (JEE MAIN)

Sol: The potential energy of the spaceship close to the earth is negative (- mgR). The orbital speed close to the
earth is v = gR , so the kinetic energy is mgR/2. The total energy is - mgR/2. We need to provide the additional
kinetic energy = mgR/2 such that the spaceship escapes the gravitational pull of the earth.
mv 2 mgR
The extra kinetic energy to be given is = , so that the extra velocity given is v ' = gR .
2 2

The velocity is v ' = 7.91× 103 m / s =

9.8 × 6400000 = 7.91 km / s

Illustration 16: An artificial satellite is moving in a circular orbit around the earth with a speed equal to one fourth
the magnitude of escape velocity from the earth.
(i) Determine the height of the satellite above the earth’s surface.
(ii) If the satellite is stopped suddenly in its orbit and allowed to fall freely towards the earth, find the speed with
which it hits the surface of the earth. (JEE MAIN)
Sol: For satellite the escape velocity is v e = 2Rg . According to given data the satellite is moving in the orbit with
one fourth the magnitude of this velocity. When satellite stops revolving, it falls freely under action of gravity from
the height h above the surface of the earth. The loss in the gravitational potential energy in falling height h is equal
to gain in the kinetic energy of the satellite.
(i) Let M and R be the mass and radius of the earth respectively. Let m be the mass of satellite. Here escape velocity
from earth v e = (2Rg)
ve
Velocity of satellite v=
g = (2Rg) / 4 ...(i) …(i)
4 
 GM   R 2g  R 2g
Further
= vc =
    ∴ v 2g = ...(ii) …(ii)
 r   
R +h R +h 
From equation (i) and (ii), we get H=7R=44800km
(ii) Now, the total energy at height h=total energy on earth’s surface (principle of conservation of energy). Let it
reach earth’s surface with velocity v.
m 1 m 1 2 GMm GMm
∴ 0 − GM =mv 2 − GM Or =mv − ( h = 7R )
R +h 2 R 2 R 7R
 P hysi cs | 10.17

Solving we get v = 12Rg / 7 ∴ =

v (1.714 × 6400 × 103
× 9.8)
= 10.368km sec

12. PLANETS AND THEIR MOTION

12.1 Law of Orbits

All the planets move in elliptical orbits with the sun as one of its focii.

12.2 Law of Areas

The radius vector from the sun at the focus of elliptical orbit to the planet sweeps out equal areas in equal intervals
of time.
If the radius vector R sweeps an angle dθ in time dt, area ASB
A Rd
1
swept by radius vector in time dt = dA = × R × Rdθ B
2
1 2 dθ 1 2
∴ dA= R dt= ωR dt d
2 dt 2 R
S
area dA 1 2
Areal velocity= = = ωR F1
time dt 2
So ωR 2 is constant for area SAB and area SCD. It shows that the
C
angular momentum mR 2 ω is conserved for planetary motion.
When R decreases, ω increases so that ωR 2 is constant. D
Figure 10.23
12.3 Laws of Periods
The square of the time period of revolution of a planet is proportional to the cube of the mean distance of the
planet from the sun.
If a is the mean distance of sun from the planet, T2 is proportional to a3 or T2 = Ka3 where K is a constant.
If a1 and a2 are semi-major axis of the orbits of two planets around the sun with respective time periods T1 and T2 ,
T12 a13
then =
T22 a32

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

Observe the time period of rotation of satellite. Got it? (It follows Kepler’s third law too)
When the planet is farthest from Sun, it is said to be at the Apogee of Aphelion.
When the planet is at nearest to the Sun, it is said to be at Perigee or Perhilion.
GV Abhinav (JEE 2012, AIR 329)

Illustration 17: The minimum and maximum distance of a satellite from the center of the earth are 2R and 4R
respectively, where R is the radius of earth and M is the mass of the earth. Find:
(a) Its minimum and maximum speeds,
(b) Radius of curvature at the point of minimum distance. (JEE ADVANCED)
 1 0 . 1 8 | Gravitation

Sol: The speed of the satellite is minimum when is at the maximum distance from the earth and vice versa. At the
point of minimum or maximum distance from earth the velocity vector is perpendicular to the radius vector from
the earth. Apply law of conservation of angular momentum and energy at the two points.
(a) Applying conservation of angular momentum

mv1(2R) = mv 2 (4R) v1 = 2v 2 …(i)

...(i) V2
R 3R
From conservation of energy A B
R
1 2 GMm 1 2 GMm V1
mv − = mv 2 − …(ii)
...(ii)
2 1 2R 2 4R
Figure 10.24
Solving Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get

GM 2GM
v2 = , v1 =
6R 3R

(b) If r is the radius of curvature at point A

mv12 GMm 4v12R 2 8R

= = ; r = (Putting value of v1 )
r (2R 2 ) GM 3

Illustration 18: The planet Neptune travels around the Sun with a period of 165 year. Show that the radius of its
orbit is approximately thirty times that of Earth’s orbit, both being considered as circular. (JEE ADVANCED)
Sol: According to the Kepler’s laws of planetary motion T2 ∝ R 3 where T is the time period of revolution and R is
the radius of the orbit of revolution of planet. Taking the ratio of time periods of revolution of Earth and Neptune,
we get the ratio of radius of their orbits.
T1 = TEarth =1 year;T2 = TNeptune =165 year=165 T1

Let R1 and R 2 be the radii of the circular orbits of Earth and Neptune respectively.

T12 R 13 R13 T22 R13 × 1652

= ∴ R 32 = or R 32 =
T22 R 32 T12 12

∴ R 32 = 1652 R13 or R 2 ≈ 30R1

13. MOTION ABOUT THE CENTRE OF MASS


As shown in the Fig 10.25, for the case of circular orbits, two objects are
moving about their common center of mass. If we consider the motion of the m
smaller body, R

GMm r M
= mω2r
(r + R )
2

The revised law of periods in
Two bodies moving in circular
 4 π2  3  R 2 orbits under the influences of each
=T2  r 1+ 
 GM   r other’s gravitational attraction
 
Figure 10.25
 P hysi cs | 10.19

Illustration 19: A pair of stars rotate about their common center of mass. One of them has mass m and the other
2m. Their centers are a distance d apart, d being large compared to the size of either star.
(a) Derive an expression for the period or rotation of the stars about their common center of mass in terms of d,
m and G
(b) Compare the angular moments of the two stars about their common center of mass.
(c) Compare the kinetic energies of the two stars.  (JEE MAIN)

Sol: The gravitational pull between two stars provides the necessary centripetal acceleration to make them revolve
2π
in a circular orbit. The time period of revolution of each star is T = . The angular momentum of the revolving
ω 2
Iω
body is given by L=I ω = m r2 ω. And the kinetic energy is given by E = .
2
The center of mass O is at a distance 2d/3 from the star of mass m and d/3 from the star of mass 2m. Both the stars
rotate with the same angular velocity ω .
(a) Since the gravitational force provides the centripetal force, then

 2d  2 Gm.2m 2π 
m = ω ⇒ ω = 3Gm d3 or T = = 2π d3 3Gm
 3  d2 ω
O
m 2m
(b) Ratio of angular momenta
2d/3 d/3

Lsmall m ( 2d 3) ω
2

= = 2
Llarge 2m d 3 2 ω
( )
(c) Ratio of kinetic energies Figure 10.26
1 2
Esmall 2 ismallω
= = 2
Elarge 1
ibigω2
2

PROBLEM-SOLVING TACTICS

 1. Most of the problems are easy, as gravitation and electrostatics are analogous to each other. Just be careful
that gravitational force is always attractive, whereas electrostatic force can be attractive as well as repulsive
and make changes as necessary.
 2. Assumptions are appreciated in real cases of satellites and planetary motion.
 3. Ideas and concepts of circular motion must be strong because they are generally applied here.
 4. While dealing practical cases on Earth, be careful about Earth’s rotation on its own axis.
 5. Most questions are solved with ease by using work-energy theorem and laws of motion
1 0 . 2 0 | Gravitation

FORMULAE SHEET

S. No. Description Formulae

1 Magnitude of gravitational force between
Gm1m2
two particles of mass m1 & m2 placed at F=
a distance r is r2
G=6.67 × 10−11N − m2 / kg2
Note: It acts along the line joining two particles.

2 Acceleration due to gravity (g)

GM 2
g= SI units:- m s
R2
M is the mass of the earth and its radius R.
3 m
GMm
Gravitational force =
(R + h )
h 2

GM
′ Fm
Acceleration due to gravity= g= =
(R + h )
2

 2h 
g′ g 1 −
If h << R = 
R M  R 

4
 h
R g′ g 1 −
At a certain, Depth H, acceleration due to gravity g′ is= 
 R
g is acceleration due to gravity at surface of earth.

5 Effect of g due to axial rotation of earth g′ = g − Rω2 cos2 φ

g′ is the acceleration due to gravity on the particle on the earth
surface in latitude φ .

6 Gravitational field strength 

 F
E = SI unit is N/kg.
m
Gravitational Field Gravitational Potential

7 Point Mass GM
GM −
r2 r

8 Uniform ring at point on its axis GM

GMr −
(a )
32
2
+ r2 a2 + r 2

(towards center of ring)

9 Uniform thin spherical shell Inside θ GM

Inside −
GM a
Outside
r2 GM
Outside −
r
 P hysi cs | 10.21

10 Uniform solid sphere

GMr Inside −GMr 2 a3
Inside
3
a

Outside
GM Outside −
GM
2
2a
(3a2
− r2 )
2
r
Here, a is the radius and r is the
location of point mass.
11 Gravitational potential Note: It is a scalar; SI unit is J kg .

12   ∂y ∂V ˆ ∂V ˆ 
E=−  ˆi + j+ k
 ∂x ∂y ∂z 
 
Note: It is partial derivative dV = −E.dr .

13 Gravitational potential energy

Gm1m2
U= −
r
(
System of particle m1 m2 m3 m4 )
m m m m mm mm mm mm 
−G  4 3 + 4 2 + 4 1 + 3 2 + 3 1 + 2 1 
U=
 r43 r42 r41 r32 r31 r21 

4 ( 4 − 1)
They are = 6 Pairs
2
14 For an n particle system, no. of pairs would
n (n − 1)
be Pairs
2
15 Binding Energy
GMm It is due to this energy particle is bound to earth.
m E=
R
R
M

16 Escape Velocity
v e = 2gR

17 Motion of Satellites Orbital Speed

GM
V0 vo =
r
m satellite
2πr r3
Time period: T = = 2π
r vo GM
M GMm GMm
Energy of satellite: U = − ;K =
r 2r
R
U is The potential energy Total Energy “E”
GMm
Earth K is The kinetic energy E =K +U =− =−K
2r
1 0 . 2 2 | Gravitation

18 Kepler’s Laws
1st Law:- Law of elliptical orbits

2nd Law:- Law of conservation of angular momentum
V2

A B (
3rd Law:- Harmonic law T2 ∝ r 3 )
r2 S r1
V1 v1r1 = v 2r2

v1 a (1 + e ) =
= r2 a (1 − e )

GM  1 − e 
Vmin
= V=
1  
a  1+ e 

GM  1 + e 
Vmax
= V=
2  
a  1− e 

Solved Examples

JEE Main/Boards of mass M and length l , if they are located along a

straight line at a distance a from each other.
Example 1: Two concentric shells of mass M1 and M2
are as shown. Calculate the gravitational force on m Sol: The gravitational potential energy is given by
due to M1 at points P, Q and R. Gm1m2
U= where m1 and m2 are point masses.
r
Sol: For a particle of mass m, lying at a distance r Consider the gravitational potential energy of interaction
from the center of the spherical shell of mass M, the between the point mass m and an infinitesimal element
 GMm  of the rod of mass dm. The total potential energy will
gravitational force of attraction is   . If the be the summation of energy of interaction of all the
2
 r 
small elements.
particle is lying inside the spherical shell then the force
of gravitation on it is zero. Consider small element dx of the rod whose mass
M
R dm = dx
c l
M2
M l m
Q M1
a dx
b P a
x

M 
GM1m Gm  dx 
At P, F = 0 At Q, F =
⇒ dU =
−  l 
b2 x
G(M1 + M2 )m
At R, F = GmM a+l dx GmM a +l
c2 ⇒U=∫ dU =− l ∫a x
=−
l
Inx 
a

Example 2: Find the potential energy of gravitational GmM a+l

⇒U=− loge  
interaction of a point mass m and a thin uniform rod l  a 
 P hysi cs | 10.23

Example 3: If the radius of the earth contracts to half of Sol: The gravitational force acting on the particle P due
its present value without change in its mass, what will
Gm2
be the new duration of the day? to each of other particles is given by F = where
(r )
2

Sol: The angular momentum of the earth is given by r is the separation between P and the other particle.
2 2 As the force is vector quantity the resultant force on
L = I ω = MR ω since earth is considered to be sphere
5 particle P has to be found by vector addition.
of uniform mass density. As there is no external force
The force at P due to A is
is acting on the earth, the angular momentum of the
earth must remain constant after the radius of earth = Gm2 Gm2
FA = along PA. The force at P due to C is
reduces to half of its original size. The time period of
( AP ) 2d
2 2

2π
revolution is T = . P
ω 2
Present angular momentum of earth L1 = Iω = MR ω 2
5 FA
New angular momentum because of change in radius FB
FC
2 d
2 R 
=L2 M   ω′
5 2 A d B d C
If external torque is zero then angular momentum must
Gm2 Gm2
be conserved =FC = along PC. The force at P due to B is
( CP ) 2d
2 2
L1 = L2
Gm2
2 1 2 FB = along PB
MR 2 ω= × MR 2 ω ' i.e., ω ' = 4ω d2
5 4 5
The resultant of FA , FB and FC will be along PB. Clearly
1 1
T′ = T = × 24 =6h ∠APB =
∠BPC =
45°
4 4
Gm2
Example 4: Two particles of equal mass go round a Components of FA along
= PB FA cos
= 45°
2 2d2
circle of radius R under the action of their mutual
gravitational attraction. Find the speed of each particle.
Gm2
Component of Fc along
= PB Fc cos
= 45°
Sol: As the particles go around the circle they always 2 2d2
remain diametrically opposite to each other. To
Gm2
sustain their respective circular motion the necessary Component of FB along PB =
centripetal acceleration is provided by the gravitation d2
force of attraction between them. Hence, the resultant of the three forces is
The particles will always remain diametrically opposite Gm2  1 1  Gm2  1 
so that the force on each particle will be directed along 2  + 1
+=
2 
1+  along PB.
d 2 2 2 2  d  2
the radius. Consider the motion of one of the particles.
Gm2
The force on the particle is F = . If the speed is v, Example 6: What is the fractional decrease in the value
its acceleration is v 2 / R . 4R 2
of free-fall acceleration g for a particle when it is lifted
Thus, by Newton’s law, from the surface to an elevation h? (h<<R)

Gm2 mv 2 Gm
= Or, v = Sol: The gravitational acceleration g at height h is
4R 2 R 4R
GM GM
given by g = . As here R>>h then g ≈ . The
(R + h)2
R2
Example 5: Three particles A, B and C, each of mass m, fractional decrease in g at height h above the surface of
are placed in a line with AB=BC=d. Find the gravitational ∆g
force on a fourth particle P of same mass, placed at the earth is given by .
g
a distance d from the particle B on the perpendicular
bisector of the line AC.
 1 0 . 2 4 | Gravitation

GM Example 8: Find the distance of a point from the earth’s

The acceleration due to gravity is g =
R 2 center where the resultant gravitational field due to the
∆g −2GM earth and the moon is zero. The mass of the earth is
∴ = (Differentiating) 6.0 × 1024 kg and that of the moon is 7.4 × 1022 kg. The
∆R R3 distance between the earth and the moon is 4.0 × 105
dg −2GM 1 dg h km.
⇒ = ⇒ = −2  
h R 2 R g R 
Sol: If a body is placed between moon and the earth
then it is under action of gravitational force due to
Example 7: A double star is a system of two stars earth and moon simultaneously. When the gravitational
moving around the center of inertia of the system field due to earth is equal in magnitude but opposite
due to gravitation. Find the distance between the in direction to gravitational field due to moon then the
components of the double star, if its total mass equals net field is zero.
M and period of revolution is T.
The point must be on the line joining the centers of
Sol: Each star is moving in circular orbit whose center the earth and the moon and in between them. If the
is at the combined center of inertia. Find the radius distance of the point from the earth is x, the distance
of orbit of one of the stars in terms of the separation from the moon is (4.0 × 105 km – x). The magnitude of
between them and find the orbital velocity of the star the gravitational field due to the earth is
in terms of d. GMe G × 6 × 1024 kg
= E1
=
Center of inertia x2 x2
O and the magnitude of the gravitational field due to the
m1 m2
moon is
GMm G × 7.4 × 1022 kg
r (d-r) =E2 =
( ) ( )
2 2
d 4.0 × 105 km − x 4.0 × 105 km − x

The situation is shown in the above figure These fields are in opposite directions. For the resultant
field to be zero E1 = E2 ,
Here =
m1r m2 (d − r)
6 × 1024 kg 7.4 × 1022 kg
∴ (m1 + m2 ) r =
m2d Or, =
x2
( 4.0 × 10 km − x )
2
5
m2d
r=
(m1 + m2 ) Or, =
x 6 × 1024
= 9
4.0 × 105 km − x 7.4 × 1022
Also =
M (m1 + m2 )
As gravitational force provides the necessary centripetal x 3.6 × 105 km
Or, =
force for rotation, we have
Example 9: A planet of mass m1 revolves around the
m1m2 m1v12 m1v1 (m1 + m2 )
2
G = = sun of mass m2. The distance between the sun and the
d2 r m2d planet is r. Taking into consideration the motion of the
12 sun, find the total energy of the system assuming the
12
 Gm2   G  orbits to be circular.
2
=∴ v1 = m2 
  
 (m1 + m2 ) d   Md 
Sol: The gravitational pull between sun and planet
provides the necessary centripetal acceleration to
2π 2πr 2πr 2πd3 2  m2d 
make them revolve in circular orbits with same angular
Now=
T =
= =  as r = 
ω v1 m2 G Md GM  M  velocities. The center of each circular orbit will be at the
combined center of mass but their radii will be different.
2
T d3 2  T  Both the planet and the sun revolve around their center
∴ = or d = 3   GM.
of mass with same angular velocity (say ω)
2π GM  2π 
m1 r1 r2 m2
COM
 P hysi cs | 10.25

r= r1 + r2  … (i)
−13.34 × 10−11 J + 0
2 2 Gm1m2
m1r1ω= m2r2 ω=  … (ii) 13.34 × 10−11 J − m 1
( )
2
r2 =
− + ( 2 kg) 10−5 m / s
d 2
Solving Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
1
( )
2

 m 
+
2
(1 kg) 2 × 10−5 m / s
r1 = r  m22 
r1 = r  m1m + m2  Solving this, d = 0.31m.
r1 = r  m1 +2m2 
m m +m 
r2 = r 1 m11 2 
r2 = r  m1m + m2  Example 11: The gravitational field in a region is given
r2 = r  m1 +1m2    
ω22 =G (m
Gm(m1 +1 ++mm
13
2 2 )
m
2)
( )( )
by E 10Nkg−1 i + j . Find the work done by an
=
ω =G (m r + m )
ω2 =
13
r 2 external agent to slowly shift a particle of mass of 2 kg
r3 from the point (0,0) to a point (5m, 4m).
And now, total energy of the system is E= P.E. + K.E. Y B(5m,4m)
Gm1m2 1 1
or E =− + m1r12 ω2 + m2r22 ω2
r 2 2
Substituting the values of r1 , r2 and ω2 , we get
Gm1m2 O (0,0) A X
E= − .
2r Sol: As the particle is moving slowly, the kinetic energy
of the particle remains zero during its motion. The work
Example 10: Two particles A and B of masses 1 kg and done by the external agent to move the particle is given
2 kg respectively are kept 1 m apart and are released f  
to move under mutual attraction. Find the speed of A by W = −∆U =
when that of B is 3.6 cm/hour. What is the separation
∫ F.dr
i
between the particles at this instant? As the particle is slowly shifted, its kinetic energy
remains zero. The total work done on the particle is
Sol: As the particles A and B are initially at rest, the thus zero. The work done by the external agent should
system has potential energy only, but as they move be negative of the work done by the gravitational field.
towards each other the loss in potential energy is equal f  
to gain in kinetic energy. As particle is moving under The work done by the field is dW =
their mutual interaction, the linear momentum system
∫ F.dr
− dU =
i
must be conserved. Consider the figure. Suppose the particle is taken from
O to A and then from A to B. The force on the particle is
The linear momentum of the pair A+B is initially zero.
     
As only mutual attraction is taken into account – which
is internal when A+B is taken as the system – the linear
F mE
= = ( 2kg) 10Nkg−1 = ( )( )
i + j ( 20N) i + j ( )
momentum will remain zero. The particles move in
The work done by the field during the displacement
opposite directions. If the speed of A is v when the
OA is
speed of B is 3.6 cm / hour = 10−5 m / s ,
5m 5m
(1kg)v = (2kg)(10 −5 ms−1 )
−5 −1
W1 = ∫ Fx dx = ∫ ( 20N)dx = 20N × 5m = 100J.
or, v= 2 × 10 ms 0 0
GmAmB Similarly, the work done in displacement AB is
The potential energy of the pair is − with usual
symbols. Initial potential energy R
4m 4m

6.67 × 10 −11 2 2
N − m kg × 2kg × 1kg
W2
= ∫ Fy dy
= ( 20N) dy (=
∫= 20N)( 4m) 80J
= − 0 0
1m
Thus, the total work done by the field, as the particle is
−13.34 × 10−11 J.
=
shifted from O to B, is 180 J.
If the separation at the given instant is d, using The work done by the external agent is -180 J.
conservation of energy,
Note that the work is independent of the path so that
we can choose any path convenient to us from O to B.
 1 0 . 2 6 | Gravitation

Example 12: A uniform solid sphere of mass M and Using conservation of angular momentum
radius ‘a’ is surrounded symmetrically by a uniform thin mv prp = mv ara
and spherical shell of equal mass and radius 2a. Find
As velocities are perpendicular to the radius, vectors at
the gravitational field at a distance
apogee and perigee, v prp = v ara
3 5
((a)
a)
2
a from the center, ((b)
b ) a from the center.
2
Using conservation of energy,

GMm 1 −GMm 1
Sol: If the particle is inside the spherical shell then the − + mv p2 = + mv 2a
rp 2 ra 2
gravitation field due to the shell is zero. The gravitational
field at distance r from the center of the sphere is given By solving, the above equations,
GM
by E = .
r2 2GMra 2GMrpra
vp
= = ; L mv
= prp m
2a
(
rp rp + ra ) rp + ra ( )
a
P1 P2
JEE Advanced/Boards
Given figure shows the situation. The point p1 is at a Example 1: The distance between the centers of two
3 5 stars is 10 a. The masses of these stars are M and 16 M
distance a from the center and p2 is at a distance
2 2 and their radii, `a’ and `2a’ respectively. A body of mass
a from the center. As p1 is inside the cavity of the thin m is fired straight from the surface of the larger star
towards the smaller star. What should be its minimum
spherical shell, the field here due to the shell is zero. initial speed to reach the surface of the smaller star?
The field due to the solid sphere is Obtain the expression in terms of G, M and a.
GM 4GM
=E = Sol: At a certain distance from the centers of the stars,
2
3  9a2
 a the gravitational fields due to the stars are equal in
2  magnitude but opposite in direction. As the body of
mass m is projected from the surface of larger star
This is also the resultant field. The direction is towards
towards the surface of smaller star, the kinetic energy
the center. The point p2 is outside the sphere as well
lost by the body is equal to gain of its potential energy
as the shell. Both may be replaced by single particles
when it reaches at the point of zero field.
of the same mass at the center. The field due to each
of them is Let O be the point along O1O2 where gravitational
intensities due to both the stars balance each other.
GM 4GM
=E′ =
2
5  25a2 M1=16M Threshold
a
 
2 
M2=M

8GM 2a O m
The resultant field is=
E 2E
=′ towards the center.
2
25a O1 O2
X
Example 13: A planet of mass m revolves in an
10a
elliptical orbit around the sun so that its maximum and
minimum distance from the sun are equal to ra and rp Let O1O = x
respectively. Find the angular momentum of this planet
relative to the sun. GM1 GM2
∴ 2
=
2
x
(10a − x )
Sol: At the apogee and perigee the radius vector is
perpendicular to the velocity vector of the plane. Use Or 16 (10 − x ) =
2
x2 or x = 8a
the law of conservation of angular momentum and
energy at these two points.
 P hysi cs | 10.27

Potential energy of the body on surface of larger star,

Gm (16M) GmM 65GMm minimum and maximum distance from earth’s center
U1 =
− − =
−
2a 8a 8a during subsequent motion of the particle.

Potential energy at Sol: As the particle is projected from the satellite while
the satellite is still in circular motion, the net velocity of
GMm G (16M) m 5GMm the particle is sum of velocity relative to satellite and
O=
− − =
− UO
=
2a 8a 2a the velocity of the satellite. As the particle is still bound
to the gravitational attraction of the earth, the orbit
1 2
As U1 + mv min UO
= of the particle will be ellipse. The point of projection
2
is perigee. Conserve the angular momentum at the
65GMm 1 2 5GMm apogee and perigee.
∴− + mv min = −
8a 2 2a The orbital speed of satellite is
1 2 65GMm 5GMm 45 GMm GM
or mv min = − = vo = … (i)
2 8a 2a 8 a r 
2 45 GM 9 × 5 GM Where M=mass of earth
v min = ×
4 a 4 a
Absolute velocity of particle would be:
3 5GM 5
v min= × v p =v + v o = v = 1.25 v o  … (ii)
2 a 4 o
Since, v p lies between orbital velocity and escape
Example 2: Two masses m1 and m2 , at an infinite velocity, path of the particle would be an ellipse with r
distance from each other are initially at rest, start being the minimum distance.
interacting gravitationally. Find their velocity of
approach when they are at a distance r apart.

Sol: As the masses move towards each other gain in

1
r r
kinetic energy is equal to loss in gravitational potential Particle
energy. This problem is best solved in center of mass
frame where the total kinetic energy of masses depends
on the square of velocity of approach.
Let v r be their velocity of approach. From conservation Let r’ be the maximum distance and v p′ its velocity at
of energy: 5
the moment. v p = v
Increase in kinetic energy=decrease in gravitational 4 o
potential energy Then, from the conservation of angular momentum
1 Gm m and conservation of mechanical energy, we get
Or µv r2 = 1 2  ... (i)
2 r mv pr = mv p′ r ′  … (iii)
m1m2
Here, µ reduced
= = mass 1 2 GMm 1 GMm
m1 + m2 mv p − = mv p′2 −  … (iv)
2 r 2 r′
Substituting in Eq. (i), we get 5r
Solving the above Eqs. (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv), we get r ′ =
2G (m1 + m2 ) and r. 3
vr =
r 5r
Hence, the maximum and minimum distance are
and r respectively. 3
Example 3: A satellite is revolving round the earth in
a circular orbit of radius e and velocity v o . A particle
is projected from the satellite in forward direction

with relative velocity

= v ( )
5 4 − 1 v o . Calculate its
1 0 . 2 8 | Gravitation

Example 4: An earth satellite is revolving in a circular 8a ± 4a 2a

or r = or r=2a and
orbit of radius ‘a’ with velocity v o . A gun is in the 6 3
satellite and is aimed towards the earth. A bullet is Hence, the maximum and minimum distance are 2a
v
fired from the gun with muzzle velocity o . Neglecting 2a
2 and respectively.
resistance offered by cosmic dust and recoil of gun, 3
calculate maximum and minimum distance of bullet Example 5: Binary stars of comparable masses m1 and
from the center of earth during its subsequent motion. m2 rotate under the influence of each other’s gravity
with a time period T. If they are stopped suddenly in
Sol: Conserve the angular momentum and energy of their motion, find their relative velocity when they
the particle between the points, the point of projection collide with each other. The radii of the stars are R1
and at perigee. At perigee velocity is perpendicular to and R 2 respectively. G is the universal constant of
radius. gravitation.
The orbital speed of the satellite is
Sol: They rotate about center of mass, such that the
GM necessary centripetal acceleration for the rotational
vo =  … (i)
a motion is provided by the gravitational force of
attraction. As the stars start approaching each other
From conservation of angular momentum at P and Q and collide, the loss in the gravitational energy of
we have system is equal to the gain in the kinetic energy of the
mav o = mvr system. Find the initial separation in terms of the time
period.
av o
Or v =  …(ii) Both the stars rotate about their center of mass (COM).
r
From conservation of mechanical energy at P and Q. m2
we have m1
Vnet R1 COM R2
V Q V0

r1 r2
P r
V0
a 2
For the position of COM

r1 r2 r1 + r2 r
1  2 v o  GMm 1
2
GMm
= = =
m2 m1 m1 + m2 m1 + m2
(r= r1 + r2 )
m vo + − = mv 2 −
2  4  a 2 r
 
Gm m Gm  2π 
2 Also, m1r1ω2 = 1 2 or ω2 = 2  ω = 
5 2 GM v GMm r 2
r1r 2
 T 
or v − = −
8 o a 2 r
m2r
But, r1 =
Substituting values of v and v o from Eqs. (i) and (ii), m1 + m2
we get
G (m1 + m2 )
5 GM GM a2  GM  GM ∴ ω2 =
− =  − r3
8 a a r 2  2a  r
13
 G (m1 + m2 ) 
3 a 1 Or r =   …(i)
or − = − or −3r 2 = 4a2 − 8ar 
8a 2r 2 r  ω2 

or 3r 2 − 8ar + 4a2 =
0 Applying conservation of mechanical energy we have

Gm1m2 Gm1m2 1
8a ± 64a2 − 48a2 − =− + µvr2  …(ii)
or r =
6
r (R1 + R2 ) 2
 P hysi cs | 10.29

m1m2 ro  2 
Here, µ reduced
= = mass and rmax
= 1 + 1 − K ( 2 − K ) sin φ 
m1 + m2 2 −K  
vr = relative velocity between the two stars. ro  2 
and r= 1 − 1 − K ( 2 − K ) sin φ 
From Eq. (ii), we find that min
2 −K  

2Gm1m2  1 1 r02 v 02
vr2  −  Here, K =
µ  R1 + R 2 r  GM

2Gm1m2  1 1 Example 7: The density inside a solid sphere of radius

 − 
m1m2  R1 + R 2 r 
`a’ is given by ρ = ρo a r , where ρo is the destiny at the
m1 + m2
surface and r denotes the distance from the center. Find
 1 1 the gravitational field due to this sphere at a distance of
=2G (m1+m2)  − 
 R1 + R 2 r  `2a’ from its center.

Sol: The given mass distribution is having spherical

Substituting the value of r from Eq. (i), we get symmetry. Any spherically symmetrical body can be
replaced by a point particle of the same mass situated
 13
at the center of the spherical body. The gravitational
 1  4 π2  
vr =2G (m1 + m2 )  −  field due to the sphere at the point 2a from the center
R1 + R 2  G (m + m ) T2  
  1 2   GM
of the sphere is given by E =
( 2a)
2

Example 6: Find the maximum and minimum distance

of the planet A from the sun S, if at a certain moment The field is required at a point outside the sphere.
of time it was a distance ro and travelling with the Dividing the sphere in concentric shells, each shell can
velocity v o with the angle between the radius vector be replaced by a point particle at its center having mass
and velocity vector being equal to φ . equal to the mass of the shell. Thus, the whole sphere
can be replaced by a point particle at its center having
mass equal to the mass of the given sphere. If the mass
of the sphere is M, the gravitational field at the given
A 
V0 point is
r0 GM GM
S =E =  … (i)
( 2a) 4a
2 2

Sol: As the planet revolves around the sun, the The mass M may be calculated as follows: Consider a
mechanical energy of the system is conserved. Conserve concentric shell of radius r and thickness dr. Its volume
the angular momentum between the given point and is
apogee. dV=( 4π ) dr and its mass is
2

At minimum and maximum distance velocity vector

 ρ  ( 4 π dr ) = 4ρ ar dr.
  a
()
2
dM =
ρdV =
v makes an angle of 90° with radius vector. Hence,  r
o o

from conservation of angular momentum, The mass of the whole sphere is

mv oro sin φ =mr v …(i) a

Here, m is the mass of the planet. M

= ∫ 4ρ0ar dr = 2πρ0 a3
0
From energy conservation law it follows that.
Thus, by (i) the gravitational field is
mv 2o GMm mv 2 GMm
− = −  …(ii)
2 ro 2 r 2π Gρ0 a3 1
E= = × Gρ0 a.
Here, M is the mass of the sun. 4a 2 2

Solving Eqs. (i) and (ii) for r, we get we values of r, one is

rmax and another is rmin .So,
1 0 . 3 0 | Gravitation

Example 8: Two satellites of same mass are launched in When there are two satellites, the total energy would
the same orbit round the earth so as to rotate opposite be
to each other. They collide solidly and stick together as  GMm   GMm   GMm 
wreckage. Obtain the total energy of the system before −  + −  = − 
 2r   2r   r 
and just after the collision. Describe the subsequent
motion of the wreckage. Let after collision, v ′ be the velocity of wreckage by the
law of conservation of momentum mv − mv = (m + m) v ′
Sol: Both the satellites are moving in the same orbit
∴ v′ =
0
so their orbital velocity will be same. As the masses
of the satellites are equal, and they are moving in the  
opposite direction their total momentum before and v v
after the collision is zero. m M m
The two satellites round the earth are shown in figure E
Potential energy of the satellite in its orbit = −GMm r
Kinetic energy of satellite in its orbit is
The wreckage of mass (2m) has no kinetic energy, but it
K = GMm 2r has only potential energy,
Where m is mass of satellite, M is the mass of the earth GM ( 2m)
and r is the orbital radius. So, energy after collision = −
r
GMm GMm GMm Now the combined mass has zero velocity just after
Total energy = − =
−
2r r 2r collision and therefore, the wreckage stops rotating
and falls down under gravity.

JEE Main/Boards

Exercise 1 Q.6 Where will the true weight of the body be zero?

Q.7 If the force of gravity acts on all bodies in

Q.1 Why Newton’s law of gravitation is called a universal
proportion to their masses, why does not a heavy body
law?
fall correspondingly faster than a light body.

Q.2 On earth value of

= G 6.67 × 10−11Nm2kg2 . What is
Q.8 The gravitational potential energy of a body at
its value on moon, where g is nearly one-sixth than that
a distance from the center of earth is U. What is the
of earth?
weight of the body at that point?

Q.3 An artificial satellite is revolving around the earth at

Q.9 The distance of two planets from the sun are 1011
a height 200 km from the earth’s surface. If a packet is
and 1010 meters respectively. What is the ratio of time
released from the satellite, what will happen to it? Will
periods of these two planets?
it reach the earth?

Q.10 For a satellite, escape speed is 11kms−1 . If the

Q.4 A spring balance is suspended inside an artificial
satellite is launched at an angle of 60° with the vertical,
satellite revolving around the earth. If a boy of mass
what will be the escape speed?
2 kg is suspended from it, what would be its reading?

Q.11 Prove that the value of acceleration due to gravity

Q.5 The escape velocity from earth for a piece of
at a point above the surface of the earth is inversely
10 gram is 11.2 kms−1 . What would it be for a piece of
proportional to the square of the distance of that point
mass 100 gram?
from the center of the earth.
 P hysi cs | 10.31

Q.12 Gravitational force between two bodies is 1

B
newton. If the distance between them is made twice,
what will be the force?
P S S’ A
Q.13 If a person goes to a height equal to radius of
earth from its surface, what would be his weight relative C
to that on the earth?

Q.24 Two satellites of a planet have period 32 days and

Q.14 If the change in the value of g at a height h above 256 days. If the radius of the orbit of former is R, find
the surface of the earth is the same as at a depth x the orbital radius of the latter.
below it, both x and h being much smaller than the
radius of the earth, find the relation between x and h.
Q.25 If the distance of the earth from the sun were half
the present value, how many days will make one year?
Q.15 The gravitational force acting on a rocket at a Given, 1 year= 365 days.
height h from the surface of earth is 1/3 of the force
acting on a body at sea level. What is the ratio of h and
R (radius of earth)? Q.26 Estimate the mass of the sun, assuming the orbit
of earth round the sun to be a circle. The distance
between the sun and the earth is 1.49 × 1011m , and
Q.16 Does the gravitational force of attraction of the G 6.66 × 10−11Nm2kg−2 .
=
earth becomes zero at some height above the surface
of earth? Explain.
Q.27 If the mass of the sun is 2 × 1030 kg , the distance
of the earth from sun is 1.5 × 1011 m and period of
Q.17 What do you understand by gravity and revolution of the earth around sun is one year (=365.3
acceleration due to gravity. Establish a relation between days), calculate the value of gravitational constant.
g and G.

Q.28 Calculate the mass and mean density of earth

Q.18 Explain how the knowledge of g helps us to find (i) from the following data:
mass of earth and (ii) mean density of earth?
= 6.37 × 106 m, acceleration due to
Radius of earth
gravity = 9.8ms−2 and
Q.19 What do you understand by ‘Escape velocity’?
Derive an expression for it in terms of parameters of Gravitational constant
= 6.6 × 10−11 Nm2kg−2
given planet.
Q.29 If the radius of the earth shrinks by 2.5%, mass
Q.20 What do you understand by Gravitational field, remaining constant, then how would the value of
Intensity of gravitational field. Prove that gravitational acceleration due to gravity change?
intensity at a point is equal to the acceleration due to
gravity at that point. Q.30 At what altitude the acceleration due to gravity
above the earth’s surface would be half of its value on
Q.21 Explain Kepler’s laws of planetary motion and the surface of the earth? Radius of earth is 6400 km.
deduce Newton’s law of gravitation from them.
Q.31 The radius of earth is approximately 6000 km.
Q.22 Explain Newton’s law of gravitation. Define What will be your weight at 600 km above the surface
gravitational constant, and give its dimensional formula. of earth? At 12000 km above? At 18000 km above?
Give the evidences in support of the Newton’s law of Your weight on earth is 80 kg wt.
gravitation.

Q.32 At what height from the surface of earth, the

Q.23 Let the speed of the planet at the perihelion P acceleration due to gravity is the same at a depth
in the given figure be vP and the sun-planet distance 160 km below the surface of earth. Radius of earth is
SP be rP . Relate rP′ vP to the corresponding quantities 6400 km.
at the aphelion (rA , v A ) . Will the planet take equal take
equal times to traverse BAC and CPB?
 1 0 . 3 2 | Gravitation

Q.33 What is the minimum energy required to launch a Q.3 If the radius of the earth be increased by a factor
satellite of mass m from the surface of earth of mass M, of 5, by what factor its density be changed to keep the
radius R in a circular orbit at an attitude 2 R. value of g the same?
(A) 1/25 (B) 1/5 (C) 1 5 (D) 5
Q.34 A rocket is launched vertically from the surface
of the earth with an initial velocity 10kms−1 . How far
Q.4 The mass and diameter of a planet are twice those
above the surface of the earth would it go? Radius of
of earth. What will be the period of oscillation of a
= 9.8ms−2 .
the earth 6400km;g
=
pendulum on this planet if it is a second’s pendulum
on earth?
Q.35 A remote sensing satellite of the earth revolves in
a circular orbit at a height of 250km above the earth’s (A) 2 second (B) 2 2 second
surface. What is the (a) orbital speed, and (b) period of
= 6.38 × 106
revolution of satellite? Radius of the earth 1 1
(C) second (D) second
m, and acceleration due to gravity at the surface of 2 2 2
earth = 9.8ms−2
Q.5 A particle of mass M is at a distance a form surface
Q.36 A satellite revolves round a planet in an of a thin spherical shell of equal mass and having
orbit just above the surface of planet. Taking radius a.

G 6.67 × 10−11Nm2kg−2 and the means density of the

=
M

= 5.51× 103 kgm−3 , find the period of satellite.

planet M

a
Q.37 Find the speed of escape at the moon given that
its radius 1.7 × 106 m and the value of g at its surface is (A) Gravitational field and potential both are zero at
1.63ms−2 . center of the shell.
(B) Gravitational field is zero not only inside the shell
Q.38 If the earth has a mass nine times and radius twice
but at a point outside the shell also.
that of the planet Mars, calculate the maximum speed
required by a rocket to pull out of the gravitational (C) Inside the shell, gravitational field alone is zero.
force of Mars. Given escape speed on the surface of (D) Neither gravitational field nor gravitational potential
earth is 11.2kms−1 is zero inside the shell.

Q.6 A spherical uniform planet is rotating about its

Exercise 2 axis. The velocity of a point on its equator is v. Due to
the rotation of planet about its axis the acceleration
Single Correct Choice Type 1
due to gravity g at equator is of g at poles. The
2
Q. 1 At what altitude will the acceleration due to gravity escape velocity of a particle on the pole of planet in
be 25% of that at the earth’s surface (given radius of terms of V.
earth is R)? (A) ve = 2v (B) ve = v
(A) R/4 (B) R (C) 3R/8 (D) R/2
(C) v e = v 2 (D) v e = 3v
Q.2 Let ω be the angular velocity of the earth’s rotation
about its axis. Assume that the acceleration due to Q.7 Two planets A and B have the same material density.
gravity on the earth’s surface has the same value at If the radius of A is twice that of B, then the ratio of the
the equator and the poles. An object weighed at the v
escape velocity A is.
equator gives the same reading as a reading taken at vB
a depth d below earth’s surface at a pole (d<<R). The
value of d is (A) 2 (B) 2 (C) 1 2 (D) 1 2
ω2R 2 ω2R 2 2ω2R 2 Rg
(A) (B) (C) (D)
g 2g g g
 P hysi cs | 10.33

Q.8. The escape velocity for a planet is ve. A tunnel is Q.12 A satellite of the earth is revolving in circular
dug along a diameter of the planet and a small body is orbit with a uniform velocity V. If the gravitational force
dropped into it at the surface. When the body reaches suddenly disappears, the satellite will
the center of the planet, its speed will be
(A) Continue to move with the same velocity in the
ve ve same orbit.
(A) v e (B) (C) (D) Zero
2 2 (B) Move tangentially to the original orbit with velocity V.

Q.9 A hollow spherical shell is compressed to half its (C) Fall down with increasing velocity.
radius. The gravitational potential at the center (D) Come to a stop somewhere in its original orbit.
(A) Increases
Q.13 A satellite revolves in the geostationary orbit but
(B) Decreases
in a direction east to west. The time interval between
(C) Remains same its successive passing about a point on the equator is:
(D) During the compression increases then returns at (A) 48 hrs (B) 24 hrs
the previous value.
(C) 12 hrs (D) Never

Q.10 A (nonrotating) star collapses onto itself from an

Q.14 Two point masses of mass 4m and m respectively
initial radius R i with its mass remaining unchanged.
separated by d distance are revolving under mutual
Which curve in the following figure best gives the
force of attraction. Ratio of their kinetic energies will be:
gravitational acceleration ag on the surface of the star
as function of the radius of the star during the collapse? (A) 1:4 (B) 1:5 (C) 1:1 (D) 1:2

ag Q.15 Select the correct choice(s)

b d (A) The gravitational field inside a spherical cavity, within

a a spherical planet must be non-zero and uniform.
c (B) When a body is projected horizontally at an
R appreciable large height above the earth, with a velocity
R1
less than for a circular orbit, it will fall to the earth along
(A) a (B) b (C) c (D) d a parabolic path
(C) A body of zero total mechanical energy placed in a
Q.11 A mass is at the center of a square, with four gravitational field if it is travelling away from source of
masses at the corners as shown field will escape the field.

Rank the choices according to the magnitude of the (D) Earth’s satellite must be in equatorial plane.
gravitational force on the center mass.
Q.16 A satellite of mass m, initially at rest on the earth,
5M 3M 2M 3M
is launched into a circular orbit at a height equal to the
radius of the earth. The minimum energy required is.
(A) M (B) M

M 5M M 2M 3 1
(A) mgR (B) mgR
4 2
5M 3M 2M 3M
1 3
(C) mgR (D) mgR
(C) 2M (D) M 4 4

M 5M M 2M
Q.17 The following figure shows the variation of energy
with the orbit radius of a circular planetary motion. Find
(A) FA = FB < FC = FD (B) FA > FB < FD < FC the correct statement about the curves A, B and C

(C) FA = FB > FC = FD (D) None

1 0 . 3 4 | Gravitation

Q.22 Satellite A and B are orbiting around the in orbits

of ratio R and 4R respectively. The ratio of their aerial
A
velocities is:

Energy C
r (A) 1:2     (B) 1:4    (C) 1:8    (D) 1:16

B Q.23 In older times, people used to think that the Earth

was flat. Imagine that the earth is indeed not a sphere
of radius R, but an infinite plate of thickness H. What
(A) A shows the kinetic energy, B the total energy and C
value of H is needed to allow the same gravitational
the potential energy of the system.
acceleration to be experienced as on the surface of
(B) C shows the total energy, V the kinetic energy and A the actual Earth? (Assume that the Earth’s density is
the potential energy of the system. uniform and equal in the two models.)
(C) C and A are kinetic and potential energies 2R 4R 8R R
(A)   (B)   (C)   (D)
respectively and B is the total energy of the system. 3 3 3 3
(D) A and B are kinetic and potential energies and C is
the total energy of the system. Q.24 A planet revolves about the sun in elliptical orbit.
 dA  16 2
The aerial velocity   of the planet is 4.0 × 10 m s .
Q.18 When a satellite moves around the earth in a  dt 
certain orbit, the quantity which remains constant is: The least distance between planet and the sun is
2 × 1012 m . Then the maximum speed of the planet in
(A) Angular velocity (B) Kinetic energy
km s is:
(C) Aerial velocity (D) Potential energy
(A) 10 (B) 20 (C) 40 (D) None of these
Q.19 A satellite of mass 5 M orbits the earth in a circular
orbit. At one point in its orbit, the satellite explodes into
two pieces, one of mass M and the other of mass 4M.
After the explosion the mass M ends up travelling in Previous Years’ Questions
the same circular orbit, but in opposite direction. After
explosion the mass 4M is.
Q.1 If the radius of x the earth were to shrink by one per
(A) In a circular orbit cent, its mass remaining the same, the acceleration due
to gravity on the earth’s surface would (1981)
(B) Unbound
(A) Decrease (B) Remain unchanged
(C) Elliptical orbit
(C) Increase (D) Be zero
(D) Data is insufficient to determine the nature of the
orbit.
Q.2 If g is the acceleration due to gravity on the earth’s
surface, the gain in the potential energy of an object of
Q.20 A satellite can be in a geostationary orbit around
mass m raised from the surface of the earth to a height
earth at a distance r from the center. If the angular
equal to the radius R of the earth, is (1983)
velocity of earth about its axis doubles, a satellite can
now be in a geostationary orbit around earth if its 1
(A) mgR (B) 2mgR
distance from the center is 2
r r r r 1
(A) (B) (C) (D) (C) mgR
(D) mgR
2 4
( 4) (2)
13 13
2 2

Q.21 A planet of mass m is in an elliptical orbit around Q.3 Imagine a light planet revolving around a very
massive star in a circular orbit of radius R with a period
the sun (m << Msun ) with an orbital period T. If A be the
of revolution T. If the gravitational force of attraction
area of orbit, then its angular momentum would be: between the planet and the star is proportional to R −5 2 ,
2mA mA then (1989)
(A)   (B) mAT   (C)   (D) 2mAT
T 2T (A) T2 is proportional to R 2
 P hysi cs | 10.35

(B) T2 is proportional to R 7 2 (A) 1.1 kms−1 (B) 11 kms−1

(C) T2 is proportional to R3 2 (C) 110 kms−1 (D) 0.11 kms−1

(D) T2 is proportional to R3.75

Q. 10 Statement-I: For a mass M kept at the centre of
a cube of side ‘a’, the flux of gravitational field passing
Q.4 If the distance between the earth and the sun were
through its sides is 4π GM.
half its present value, the number of days in a year
would have been  (1996) Statement-II: If the direction of a field due to a point
source is radial and its dependence on the distance ‘r’
(A) 64.5 (B) 129 (C) 182.5 (D) 730)
for the source is given as 1/r2, its flux through a closed
surface depends only on the strength of the source
Q.5 A simple pendulum has a time period T1 when on enclosed by the surface and not on the size or shape of
the earth’s surface and T2 when taken to a height R the surface (2008)
above the earth’s surface, where R is the radius of the
earth. The value of T2/T1 is (2001) (A) Statement-I is false, statement-II is true.

(A) 1 (B) 2 (C) 4 (D) 2 (B) Statement-I is true, statement-II is true; statement-II
is correct explanation for statement-I.

Q.6 A geostationary satellite orbits around the earth in a (C) Statement-I is true, statement-II is true; statement-II
circular orbit of radius 36,000km. Then, the time period is not a correct explanation for statement-I.
of a spy satellite orbiting a few hundred km above the (D) Statement-I is true, statement-II is false.
earth’s surface (R e = 6400km) will approximately be
 (2002)
Q.11 The height at which the acceleration due to gravity
(A) 1 2h (B) 1 h (C) 2 h (D) 4 h
g
becomes (where g = the acceleration due to gravity
9
Q.7 A double star system consists of two stars A and
on the surface of the earth) in terms of R, the radius of
B which have time periods TA and TB . Radius R A and
the earth is (2009)
RB and mass MA and MB . Choose the correct option.
 (2006) R R
(A) 2R (B) (C) (D) 2R
2 2
(A) TA > TB then R A > RB

(B) if TA > TB then MA > MB Q.12 Two bodies of masses m and 4 m are placed at a
distance r. The gravitational potential at a point on the
T 
2
 RA 
3 line joining them where the gravitational field is zero is:
(C)  A  =    (2011)
 TB   RB 
4Gm 6Gm
(A) − (B) −
(D) TA = TB r r
9Gm
(C) − (D) Zero
Q.8 A satellite is moving with a constant speed v in a r
circular orbit about the earth. An object of mass m is
ejected from the satellite such that it just escapes from Q.13 The mass of a spaceship is 1000 kg. It is to be
the gravitational pull of the earth. At the time of its launched from the earth’s surface out into free space.
ejection, the kinetic energy of the object is (2011) The value of ‘g’ and ‘R’ (radius of earth) are 10 m/s2 and
6400km respectively. The required energy for this work
1 2 3
(A) mv (B) mv 2 (C) mv 2 (D) 2mv 2 will be: (2012)
2 2
(A) 6.4 x 1011 Joules (B) 6.4 x 108 Joules
Q.9 A planet in a distant solar system is 10 times (C) 6.4 x 109 Joules (D) 6.4 x 1010 Joules
more massive than the earth and its radius is 10 times
smaller. Given that the escape velocity from the earth
is 11 kms−1, the escape velocity from the surface of the
planet would be (2008)
1 0 . 3 6 | Gravitation

Q.14 What is the minimum energy required to launch a −GM −GM

(A) (B)
satellite of mass m from the surface of a planet of mass 2R R
M and radius R in a circular orbit at an altitude of 2R?
−2GM −2GM
 (2013) (C) (D)
3R R
5GmM 2GmM
(A) (B)
6R 3R Q.16 A satellite is revolving in a circular orbit at a height
‘h’ from the earth’s surface (radius or earth R; h<<R).
GmM GmM
(C) (D) The minimum increase in its orbital velocity required,
2R 3R
so that the satellite could escape from the earth’s
gravitational field, is close to: (Neglect the effect of
Q.15 From a solid sphere of mass M and radius R, a atmosphere.) (2016)
spherical portion of radius R/2 is removed, as shown in
the figure. Taking gravitational potential V = 0 at r = ∞, (A) gR (B) gR / 2
the potential at the centre of the cavity thus formed is:
(G = gravitational constant) (2015) (C) gR( 2 − 1) (D) 2gR

JEE Advanced/Boards

Exercise 1 Q.4 Calculate the distance from the surface of the earth
at which above and below the surface acceleration due
to gravity is the same.
Q.1 A small mass and a thin uniform rod each of mass
‘m’ are positioned along the same straight line as
Q.5 An object is projected vertically upward from the
shown. Find the force of gravitational attraction exerted
surface of the earth of mass M with a velocity such that
by the rod on the small mass.
the maximum height reached is eight times the radius
2L R of the earth. Calculate:
L
m (i) The initial speed of projection
m
(ii) The speed at half the maximum height.
Q.2 A particle is forced vertically form the surface of the
earth with a velocity kve where ve is the escape velocity Q.6 A sphere of radius R has it center at the origin.
and k<1. Neglecting air resistance and assuming It has a uniform mass density ρ0 except that there is
earth’s radius as R e , calculate the height to which it will
rise from the surface of the earth. a spherical hole of radius r = R 2 whose center is at
x = R 2 as in the given figure. (a) Find gravitational
field at points on the axis for x>R
Q.3 A point P lies on the axis of a fixed ring of mass M
and radius a, at a distance a from its center C. A small
particle starts from P and reaches C under gravitational
attraction only. Its speed at C will be_______. O
X
 P hysi cs | 10.37

(b) Show that the gravitational field inside the hole is Q.12 A thin spherical shell of total mass M and radius R
uniform. Find its magnitude and direction. is held fixed. There is a small hole in the shell. A mass m
is released from rest at a distance R from the hole along
Q.7 A small body of mass is projected with a velocity a line that passes through the hole and also through
just sufficient to make it reach from the surface of a the center of the shell. This mass subsequently moves
planet (of radius 2R and mass 3M) to the surface of under the gravitational force of the shell. How long
another planet (of radius R and mass M). The distance does the mass take to travel from the hole to the point
between the centers of the two spherical planet is 6R. diametrically opposite?
The distance of the body from the center of bigger
planet is ‘x’ at any moment. During the journey, find the Q.13 A satellite close to the earth is in orbit above the
distance x where the speed of the body is (a) maximum equator with a period of rotation of 1.5 hours. If it is
(b) minimum. Assume motion of body along the line above a point P on the equator at some time, it will be
joining centers of planets. above P again after time______.

Q.8 A man can jump over b=4m wide trench on earth. Q.14 A satellite is moving in a circular orbit around the
If mean density of an imaginary planet is twice that earth. The total energy of the satellite is E =−2 × 105 J .
of the earth, calculate its maximum possible radius so The amount of energy to be imparted to the satellite to
that he may escape from it by jumping. Given radius of transfer it to a circular orbit where its potential energy
earth=6400km. is equal to________.

Q.9 A satellite P is revolving around the earth at a height Q.15 A satellite of mass m is orbiting the earth in a
h = radius of earth (R) above equator. Another satellite circular orbit radius r. It starts losing energy due to
Q is at a height 2h revolving in opposite direction. At an small air resistance at the rate of C J/s. Then the time
instant the two are at same vertical line passing through taken for the satellite to reach the earth is_____.
center of sphere. Find the least time after which again
they are in this situation. Q.16 A satellite is orbiting the Earth of mass M in
equatorial plane in a circular orbit having radius 2R and
same sense of rotation as that of the Earth. Find duration
of time for which a man standing on the equator will be
able to see the satellite continuously. Assume that the
Earth P Q
man can see the satellite when it is above horizon. Take
M
Earth’s angular velocity = ω

Q.17 A launching pad with a spaceship is moving along

a circular orbit of the moon, whose radius R is triple that
Q.10 Two small dense stars rotate about their common of moon Rm. The ship leaves the launching pad with
center of mass as a binary system with the period 1 year a relative velocity equal to the launching pad’s initial
for each. One star is of double the mass of the other orbital velocity v 0 and the launching pad then falls to
and the mass of the lighter one is 1/3 of the mass of the moon. Determine the angle θ with the horizontal
the sun. Find the distance between the stars if distance at which the launching pad crashes into the surface if
between the earth & the sun is R. its mass is twice that of the spaceship m.

Q.11 Four masses (each of m) are placed at the vertices Q.18 A body moving radially away from a planet of mass M,
of a regular pyramid (triangular base) of side ‘a’. Find when at distance r from planet, explodes in such a way that
the work done by the system while taking them apart two of its many fragments move in mutually perpendicular
so that they form the pyramid of side ‘2a’ circular orbits around the planet. What will be
m (a) Their velocity in circular orbits
(b) Maximum distance between the two fragments
before collision and
m m
(c) Magnitude of their relative velocity just before they
a collide.
m
1 0 . 3 8 | Gravitation

Q.19 A cord of length 64 m is used to connect a 100 kg Q.25 The fastest possible rate of rotation of a planet such
astronaut to spaceship whose mass is much larger than that for which the gravitational force on material at the
that of the astronaut. Estimate the value of the tension equator barely provides the centripetal force needed
in the cord. Assume that the spaceship is orbiting near for the rotation. Show that the corresponding shortest
earth’s surface. Assume that the spaceship and the
3π
astronaut fall on a straight line from the earth’s center. period of rotation is given by T = , where ρ is the
The radius of the earth is 6400km. Gρ
density of the planet, assumed to be homogeneous.
Q.20 Imagine a planet of mass M with a small moon of m
mass m and radius a orbiting it and keeping the same
face toward it. If the moon now approaches the planet,
there will be a critical distance from the planet’s center
at which loose material lying on the moon’s surface R
will be lifted off. Show that this distance is given by m m

re = a ( 3M m)
13
. This critical distance is called Roche’s
limit.
Exercise 2
Q.21 A hypothetical planet of mass M has three moons
each of equal mass ‘m’ revolving in the same circular Multiple Correct Choice Type
orbit of radius R. The masses are equally spaced and
thus form an equilateral triangle. Find:
Q.1 Assuming the earth to be a sphere of uniform
(i) The total P.E. of the system density the acceleration due to gravity
(ii) The orbital speed of each moon such that they (A) At a point outside the earth is inversely proportional
maintain this configuration. to the square of its distance from the center.
(B) At a point outside the earth in inversely proportional
Q.22 A remote sensing satellite is revolving in an orbit to its distance from the center.
of radius x over the equator of earth. Find the area on
earth’s surface in which satellite cannot send message. (C) At a point inside is zero.
(D) At a point inside is proportional to its distance from
Q.23 A pair of stars rotate about a common center of the center.
mass. One of the stars has a mass M which is twice as
large as the mass m of the other. Their centers are a Q.2 Two masses m1 and m2 (m1 < m2 ) are released
distance d apart, d being large compared to the size of from rest from a finite distance. They start under their
either star. mutual gravitational attraction.
(a) Derive an expression for the period of rotation of (A) Acceleration of m1 is more than that of m2.
the star about their common center of mass in terms
of d, m, G. (B) Acceleration of m1 is more than that of m1.

(b) Compare the angular momentum of the two stars (C) Center of mass of system will remain at rest in all
about their common center of mass by calculating the reference frames.
ratio Lm LM . (D) Total energy of system remains constant.
(c) Compare the kinetic energies of the two stars by
calculating the ratio Km KM . Q.3 Inside a hollow isolated spherical shell
(A) Everywhere gravitational potential is zero.
Q.24 Assume that a geosynchronous communications
(B) Everywhere gravitational field is zero.
satellite is in orbit at the longitude of Mumbai. You
are in Mumbai and want to pick up its signals. In what (C) Everywhere gravitational potential is same.
direction should you point the axis of your parabolic
(D) Everywhere gravitational field is same.
antenna? The latitude of Mumbai 30° N.
 P hysi cs | 10.39

Q.4 When a satellite in a circular orbit around the earth Q.9 For a satellite to orbit around the earth, which of
centers the atmospheric region, it encounters small air the following must be true?
resistance to its motion. Then
(A) It must be above the equator at some time.
(A) Its kinetic energy increases.
(B) Its cannot pass over the poles at any time
(B) Its kinetic energy decreases.
(C) Its height above the surface cannot exceed 36,000 km
(C) Its angular momentum about the earth decreases.
(D) Its period of rotation must be > 2π R g where R is
(D) Its period of revolution around the earth increases. radius of earth

Q.5 A communications Earth satellite Q.10 Two satellites s1 & s2 of equal masses revolve
in the same sense around a heavy planet in coplanar
(A) Goes round the earth from east to west.
circular orbit of radii R & 4R.
(B) Can be in the equatorial plane only.
(A) The ratio of period of revolution s1 & s2 is 1:8
(C) Can be vertically above any place on the earth.
(B) Their velocities are in the ratio 2:1
(D) Goes round the earth from west to east.
(C) Their angular momentum about the planet are in
the ratio 2:1
Q.6 An earth satellite is moved from one stable circular
orbit to another larger and stable circular orbit. The (D) The ratio of angular velocities of s1 w.r.t. s2 when all
following quantities increase for the satellite as a result three are in same line is 9:5
of this change:-
Assertion Reasoning Type
(A) Gravitational potential energy
(A) Statement-I is true, statement-II is true and
(B) Angular velocity
statement-II is correct explanation for statement-I.
(C) Linear orbital velocity
(B) Statement-I is true, statement-II is true and
(D) Centripetal acceleration statement-II is NOT the correct the explanation for
statement-I.
Q.7 A satellite S is moving in an elliptical orbit around (C) Statement-I is true, statement-II is false.
the earth. The mass of the satellite is very small
compared to the mass of the earth. (D) Statement-I false, statement-II is true.

(A) The acceleration of S is always directed towards the

Q.11 Statement-I: Moon revolving around earth does
center of the earth.
not come despite earth’s gravitational attraction.
(B) The angular momentum of S about the center of the
Statement-II: A radially outward force balances earth’s
earth changes in direction, but its magnitude remains
force of attraction during revolution of moon.
constant.
(C) The total mechanical energy of S varies periodically
Q.12 Statement-I: Time period of simple pendulum in
with time.
an orbiting geostationary satellite in infinite.
(D) The linear momentum of S remains constant in
Statement-II: Earth’s gravitational field becomes
magnitude.
negligible at large distance from it.

Q.8 If a satellite orbits as close to the earth’s surface as

Q.13 Statement-I: Geostationary satellite may be
possible,
setup in equatorial plane in orbits of any radius more
(A) Its speed is maximum than earth’s radius.
(B) Time period of its rotation is minimum Statement-II: Geostationary satellite have period of
revolution of 24 hrs.
(C) The total energy of the ‘earth plus satellite’ system
is minimum
Q.14 Statement-I: For the calculation of gravitational
(D) The total energy of the ‘earth plus satellite’ system
force between any two uniform spherical shells, they
is maximum
1 0 . 4 0 | Gravitation

can always be replaced by particles of same mass Q.19 If U is the potential energy and K kinetic energy
placed at respective centers. then U > K at
Statement-II: Gravitational field of a uniform spherical (A) Only D (B) Only C
shell out side it is the same as that of particle of same
(C) Both D & C (D) Neither D nor C
mass placed at its center of mass.

Paragraph 3:
Q.15 Statement-I: It takes more fuel for a spacecraft to
travel from the earth to moon than for the return trip. During the formation of stars from clouds of hydrogen
gas in space, due to gravitational force of attraction,
Statement-II: Potential energy of spacecraft at moon’s
volume of gas decreases, which in turn heats the gas.
surface is greater than that at earth surface.
Specific heat capacity of gas is S, universal gravitational
constant is G and mass in a hydrogen cloud is M.
Comprehension Type
Q.20 If radius of gas cloud decreases from R to R 2 ,
Paragraph 1:
the increment in temperature of gas is (assume No loss
Two uniform spherical stars made of same material of energy outside due to radiations, and clouds are
have radii R and 2R. Mass of the smaller planet is m. spherical in shape)
They start moving from rest towards each other from
a large distance under mutual force of gravity. The GM 3GM 3GS 3GM
(A) (B) (C) (D) −
collision between the stars is inelastic with coefficient RS 5RS 5MR RS
of restitution ½.
Q.21 Assume the initial temperature of gas is 0 K and
Q.16 Kinetic energy of the system just after the collision thermonuclear reactions will start at T0 K temperature,
is: the minimum mass of gas required so that thermonuclear
reactions start when radius of cloud becomes half of
8Gm2 2Gm2
(A) (B) initial radius (R). Assume uniform temperature in entire
3R 3R volume of gas.
4Gm2
(C) (D) Cannot be determined
3R 5 SRT0 3 SRT0
(A) (B)
3 G 5 G
Q.17 The maximum separation between their centers SRT0
after their first collision (C) (D) None
G
(A) 4 R (B) 6 R (C) 8 R (D) 12 R
Paragraph 4:
Paragraph 2: In some parts of universe, it is found that acceleration
The given figure shows the orbit of a planet P round produced in a body is inversely proportional to the
the sun S, AB and CD are the minor and major axes of square of its mass and directly proportional to the net
the ellipse. F
force (F) according to equation a = c where c is
A m2
P
constant, whose magnitude is 1, if m is measured in kg,
a is measured in m/s2 and F is in Bose. Also action and
D C reaction force are equal and opposite and on different
S
interacting bodies.

B
Q.22 In the given figure shown, two blocks of mass m1
Q.18 If t1 is the time taken by the planet to travel along = 2 kg and m2 = 4 kg are attached via an ideal massless
ACB and t2 the time along BDA, then string over frictionless mass less pulley. If acceleration
due to gravity g = 5 m/s2.The tension in the string is
(A) t1 = t2 (B) t1 > t2
(C) t1 < t2 (D) Nothing can be concluded
 P hysi cs | 10.41

Then
y

m x
A O B
m1 m2

(A) 6 Bose (B) 1.67 Bose

z
(C) 3 Bose (D) 32 Bose
(A) the gravitational field due to this object at the origin
is zero.
Q.23 In the given figure a block of mass m=2 kg is
placed on smooth inclined plane. The minimum value (B) the gravitational field at the point B (2, 0, 0) is zero
(
of force F needed to support the block is g = 5m s 2
) (C) the gravitational potential is the same at all points
of circle y 2 + z 2 =
36

F (D) the gravitational potential is the same at all points

on the circle y 2 + z 2 =
4

Q.3 The magnitude of the gravitational field at distance

r1 and r2 from the center of a uniform sphere of radius
R and mass M are F1 and F2 respectively. Then  (1994)
=30
o

F1 r1
(A) = if r1 < R and r2 < R
(A) Zero, Newton (B) 10 Bose F2 r2
(C) 20 Bose (D) 10 Newton
F1 r22
(B) => if r1 R and r2 > R
F2 r 2
1

Previous Years’ Questions F1 r13

(C) = if r1 < R and r2 < R
F2 r3
2
Q.1. Statement-I: An astronaut in an orbiting space
station above the earth experiences weightlessness. F1 r12
(D) = if r1 < R and r2 < R
F2 r 2
Statement-II: An object moving around the earth 2
under the influence of earth’s gravitational force is in a
state of ‘free-fall’ (2008) Q.4 Two satellites S1 and S2 revolve round a planet in
(A) If statement-I is true, statement-II is true; statement-II coplanar circular orbits in the same sense. Their periods
is the correct explanation for statement-I of revolution are 1 h and 8 h respectively. The radius
of the orbit of S1 is 10 4 km. when S2 is closed to S1 .
(B) If statement-I is true; statement-II is true; statement-II Find
is not a correct is true; statement-I
(a) the speed of S2 relative to S1 ,
(C) If statement-I is true; statement-II is false
(b) the angular speed of S2 as actually observed by an
(D) If statement-I is false; statement-II is true astronaut in S1  (1986)

Q.2 A solid sphere of uniform density and radius 4 units Q.5 Three particles, each of mass m, are situated at
is located with its center at the origin O of coordinates. the vertices of an equilateral triangle of side length a.
Two spheres of equal radii 1 unit, with their centers at A The only forces acting on the particles are their mutual
(-2, 0, 0) and B (2, 0, 0) respectively, are taken out of the gravitational forces. It is desired that each particle
solid leaving behind spherical cavities as shown in the moves in a circle while maintaining the original mutual
given figure.  (1993)
1 0 . 4 2 | Gravitation

separation a. Find the initial velocity that should be v v

given to each particle and also the time period of
circular motion  (1988) (A) (B)

Q.6 An artificial satellite is moving in circular orbit R r R r

around the earth with a speed equal to half the
magnitude of escape velocity from the earth.  (1990) v v
(a) Determine the height of the satellite above the
earth’s surface. (C) (D)

(b) If the satellite is stopped suddenly in its orbit and

allowed to fall freely onto the earth, find the speed with R r R r
which it hits surface of the earth. Q.11 Two spherical planets P and Q have the same
uniform density ρ , masses MP and MQ, an surface areas
Q.7 Distance between the centers of two stars is 10a . A and 4A, respectively. A spherical planet R also has
The masses of these stars are M and 16 M and their uniform density ρ and its mass is (MP +MQ). The escape
radii a and 2a respectively. A body of mass m is fired velocities from the planets P, Q and R, are VP, VQ and V
straight from the surface of the larger star towards the respectively. Then  (2012)
surface of the smaller star. What should be its minimum
(A) VQ > VR > VP (B) VR > VQ > VP
initial speed to reach the surface of the smaller star?
Obtain the expression in terms of G, M and a.  (1996) VR VP 1
(C) = 3 (D) =
VP VQ 2
R
Q.8 There is a crater of depth on the surface of the 1
100 Q.12 A planet of radius R = × (radius of Earth) has
10
moon (radius R). A projectile is fired vertically upward
the same mass density as Earth. Scientists dig a well of
from the crater with velocity, which is equal to the
escape velocity v from the surface of the moon. Find R
depth on it and lower a wire of the same length and
the maximum height attained by the projectile. (2003) 5
of linear mass density 10-3 kgm-1 into it. If the wire is not
touching anywhere, the force applied at the top of the
Q.9 Gravitational acceleration on the surface of a planet
wire by a person holding it in place is (take the radius of
6 Earth = 6 × 106 m and the acceleration due to gravity of
is g, where g is the gravitational acceleration on the
11 Earth is 10 ms-2) (2014)
surface of the earth. The average mass density of the (A) 96 N (B) 108 N (C) 120 N (D) 150 N
2
planet is times that of the earth. If the escape speed
3 Q.13 In an experiment to determine the acceleration
on the surface of the earth is taken to be11 km/s the due to gravity g, the formula used for the time period
escape speed on the surface of the planet in km/s will
7(R − r)
be? (2010) of a periodic motion is T = 2π = . The values
5g

Q.10 A spherically symmetric gravitational system of of R and r are measured to be (60 ± 1) mm and (10 ±
1) mm, respectively. In five successive measurements,
 for r ≤ R
ρ the time period is found to be 0.52 s, 0.56 s, 0.57 s,
particles has a mass density ρ = 0
0 for r > R 0.54 s and 0.59 s. The least count of the watch used for
where ρ0 is a constant. A test mass can undergo circular the measurement of time period is 0.01 s. Which of the
motion under the influence of the gravitational field of following statement(s) is (are) true? (2016)
particles. Its speed v as a function of distance r from the (A) The error in the measurement of r is 10%
center of the system is represented by (2008)
(B) The error in the measurement of T is 3.57%
(C) The error in the measurement of T is 2%
(D) The error in the determined value of g is 11%
 P hysi cs | 10.43

PlancEssential Questions
JEE Main/Boards JEE Advanced/Boards
Exercise 1 Exercise 1
Q.23 Q.31 Q.33 Q.1 Q.5 Q.6
Q.35 Q.11 Q.16 Q.21

Exercise 2 Exercise 2
Q. 2 Q.13 Q.17 Q.1 Q.2 Q.5
Q.20 Q.6 Q.7 Q.8
Q.10 Q.11 Q.12
Q.16

Answer Key

JEE Main /Boards Q.26 1.972 × 1030 kg

Exercise 1 Q.27 6.69 × 10−11 m2kg−2

Q.3 No Q.28 6.025 × 1024 kg;5.56 × 103 kg m3

Q.4 Zero Q.29 Increase by 5%

Q.9 10 10 Q.30 2649.6 km

Q.10 11 km/s Q.31 66.12 kg wt; 8.89 kg wt; 5 kg wt.

Q.13 One-Fourth Q.32 80 km

5GmM
Q.14 x=2h Q.33
6R
Q.15 0.732 Q.34 2.56 × 10 4 km

Q.23 v A vP = rP rA ; No, time for path BAC is greater Q.35 (a) 7756.6m s ; (b) 5373 s
than time for path CPB
Q.36 5064 s
Q.24 4 R
Q.37 2.354 × 103 ms−1
Q.25 129 days
Q.38 5.28kms−1
 1 0 . 4 4 | Gravitation

Exercise 2

Single Correct Choice Type

Q.1 B Q.2 A Q.3 B Q.4 B Q.5 C Q.6 A

Q.7 A Q.8 B Q.9 B Q.10 B Q.11 A Q.12 B
Q.13 C Q.14 A Q.15 C Q.16 D Q.17 D Q.18 C
Q.19 B Q.20 C Q.21 A Q.22 A Q.23 A Q.24 C

Previous Years’ Questions

Q.1 C Q.2 A Q.3 B Q.4 B Q.5 D Q.6 C
Q.7 D Q.8 B Q.9 C Q.10 B Q.11 A Q.12 C
Q.13 D Q.14 A Q.15 B Q.16 C

JEE Advanced/Boards
Q.10 R
Exercise 1

GM2 6GM2
Q.1 Q.11
2a
3L2

R ek 2 Q.12 2 × R 3 GM
Q.2
1 − k2

2GM  1  Q.13 1.6 hours if it is rotating from west to east, 24 17

Q.3 1 −  hours if it is rotating from east to west
a  2

Q.14 1× 105 J
3 −1
Q.4 h = R
2
GMm  1 1 
Q.15 t
=  − 
4 GM 2 2GM 2C  R e r 
Q.5 (i) (ii)
3 R 3 5R 2π
Q.16
 Gm 
3 – ω 
 8R3 e 
   
πGρ0R3  1 8 ˆ GM
=Q.6 (a) E  −  ,i,(b) E =
3
6
( )
2 2
 x − (R / 2 ) x  2R 2 Q.17 cos θ =
 10
Q.7 2R, 3R 3 − 3  GM 2GM
  Q.18 (a) ; (b) r 2 ; (c)
r R

Q.8 6.4 km Q.19 T= 3 × 10−2 N

Q.20 re = a ( 3M m)
13

Q.9
( )
2πR 3 2 6 6

(
GM 2 2 + 3 3 ) Q.21 (i) −
3GM  m


+ m  , (ii)

 GM (2 3 + R) 
R  3   R 2 3 

 P hysi cs | 10.45

Q.22 2pR2 1 + R  −1 
Q.24 cot  3 −
32 
   to vertical
 x  105 

2πd3 2 3π
Q.23 (a) T = (b) 2 (c) 2 Q.25 T =
3GM Gρ

Exercise 2

Multiple Correct Choice Type

Q.1 A, D Q.2 A, D Q.3 B, C, D Q.4 A,C Q.5 B, D Q.6 A, C, D

Q.7 A, D Q.8 A, B, C Q.9 A, D Q.10 A, B, D

Assertion Reasoning Type

Q.11 C Q.12 B Q.13 D Q.14 D Q.15 A

Comprehension Type
Paragraph 1: Q.16 B Q.17 A
Paragraph 2: Q.18 B Q.19 C
Paragraph 3: Q.20 B Q.21 A
Paragraph 4: Q.22 D Q.23 B

Previous Years’ Questions

Q.1 A Q.2 A Q.3 B Q.4 (a) −π × 10 4 km h (b) 3 × 10−4 rad s

Gm a3
Q.5 v = , T = 2π Q.6 (a) 6400 km (b) 7.9 km/s
a 3Gm

3 5 GM
Q.7 Q.8 99.5 R Q.9 3 Q.10 C
2 a

Q.11 B, D Q.12 B Q.13 A

1 0 . 4 6 | Gravitation

Solutions

JEE Main/Boards W=
U
r
Exercise 1 Hence weight =
U
r
Sol 1: Newton’s law of gravitation is called a universal
Sol 9: T ∝ r3/2
law because it is applicable anywhere in the universe.
3 3
T1  r 2  1011  2
=  1  =   = 10 10
Sol 2: The value is same on moon. G is called universal  1010 
T2  r2   
gravitational constant, which is constant anywhere in
the universe
Sol 10: Escape speed is still 11 km s–1 because escape
speed is irrespective of angle of launch (of course not
Sol 3: The packet doesn’t reach the earth (theoretically).
towards ground). We calculate escape velocity by
Because in a satellite, centrifugal force balances the
gravitational force on it. The same will happen with 1 GMm
m V2 =
the packet, which has same initial velocity as that of 2 r
satellite. (Kinetic energy + Potential energy)
= it Irrespective of angle of each.
Sol 4: Its reading will be zero. A spring balance shows
the net force the hanging body exerts on it net force by
body = Mass × Acceleration Sol 11: Acceleration due to gravity

∴ The net acceleration is zero as the centrifugal and GM

g=
gravitational forces balance each other, it reads zero. r2
1
g∝
Sol 5: Escape velocity is always constant for a given r2
celestial body. Escape velocity of earth is 11.2 km s–1. It Hence it is inversely proportional to r2
is same irrespective of mass.
1
Sol 12: f ∝
Sol 6: Weight = Mass × Net acceleration It will be zero, r2
if net acceleration is zero like a satellite. r 
2

f2 = f1 .  1 
GMm  r2 
Sol 7: Gravitational force (f) =
r2 r1 1
∴f∝m =
r2 2
f
∴ Acceleration due to gravity g =
m f1 1
∴ f2 = = N
GM 4 4
g=
r2 ∴ Gravitational force 0.25 N
It is independent of m.
Here both fall at same time Sol 13: If he goes to a height r, his distance from center
is 2r
GMm r1 1
Sol 8: U = i.e., =
r r2 2
weight W = mg 1
w∝ (w = Weight)
 GM  1  GMm  r2
= m.  =  
 r2  r  r 
 P hysi cs | 10.47

2
w2 r  GMm
=  1  Sol 16: No. gravitational force f =
r2
w1  r2 
1
2 ⇒f∝
w2  1 1 r2
⇒ =   = ’
w1 2 4 1
will never become zero.
r2
i.e., his weight quadrates
So force doesn’t become zero.
GM
Sol 14: g = for r ≥ r0 (r0 is radius of earth)
r2 Sol 17: Gravity is the force with which a body pulls
dg GM another body towards its center.
=–
dr 2r 3 Acceleration due to gravity is the acceleration which it
produces in the body due to force of gravity
GM
⇒ Dg = – .Dr GM
2r 3 g=
r2
GM
⇒ Dg = – .h GM
2r03 Sol 18: g =
r2
GM m = Mass of earth
g= r1 r1 ≤ r0
r03
r = Radius of earth
GM r 2g
Dg = (r1 – r0) m=
r03 G
r1 – r0 = – x = We can calculate g by physical means, r is known,
hence M can be calculated
GM
⇒ Dg = . (– x) M
r03 Mean density of earth =
4 3
GM GM πr
⇒ (–x) = (–2h) 3
r03 r03 ∴
M can be calculated, mean density can also be
⇒ x = 2h calculated.
2
f1 r 
Sol 15: =  2  Sol 19: Escape velocity is the velocity with which when
f2  r1  a body is projected from the surface of a celestial body,
it crosses its potential barrier and escapes into out
r1 = r0, r2 = Distance of rocket from center of earth
space for bodies to escape total energy ≥ 0
f2 1 i.e. K. E + P.E ≥ 0
=
f1 3
At escape velocity
2
r  r K.E + P.E = 0
⇒ 3 =  2  ⇒ 2 = 3
 r1  r1 1 GMm
⇒ mv2 – =0
Height of rocket n = r2 – r1 2 r

r2 2GM
= 3 ⇒v=
r1 r
r2
–1= 3–1
r1 Sol 20: Gravity field is a field in which a body produces
r2 – r1 a force on another body.
⇒ = 3 –1
r1 Intensity of gravitational force is the force which a body
h attracts a body of unit mass
⇒ = 0.732
r1
1 0 . 4 8 | Gravitation

GM force between two bodies. In simple terms it can be

Intensity = ... (i) sides the proportionality constant for Newton’s law of
2
r 
gravitation
GM
= =g m
2
r2 G = 6.67 × 10–4 N  
 kg 
Sol 21: Kepler’s law T2 ∝ r3 fL2
Dimensional formula [G] =
2πr r2 m2
T= ;⇒ ∝ r3
v v 2 GMm
f=
1 r2
⇒ v2 ∝ ...... (i)
r [G][M][m] FL2
[f] = = . m.m.L–2 = f
For a planetary motion [r]2 m2

PE + KE = 0 It supports Newton’s law empirically

1  
⇒ mv2 + PE = 0 Sol 23: The distance travelled dx in time dt is dv
2
1 m 
⇒ PE = – mv2 ; ⇒ PE ∝ – = v .dt
2 r
Area swept by radius vector
d
Gravitational force = P.E 1→ →
dr dA = r × v dt
d  m 2
⇒F∝ –  1
dr  r  dA A = r v dt and
m km 2 A A
⇒f∝ ⇒f= (k-some constant) 1
2
r r2 dAP = r v dt
Let two bodies m1, m2 exert gravity on each other. 2 p p

k 2m2 ∴ dA = Constant, (Kepler’s 2nd law)

f12 = ⇒ f12 ∝ m1  ...... (i) dt
r2
k1m1 ⇒ rAvA = rPvP
f21 = ⇒ f21 ∝ m2 ...... (ii)
2
r The time taken is different as
Where f12 is force on body 1 by body 2 similarly f21
area of SBAC ± SCPB
defined
but |f12| = |f21| newton's third law Sol 24: T2 ∝ r3
⇒ t12 ∝ m2 2 2
r1  T 3  T1  3
m1m2 ⇒ =  1  ; ⇒ r1 = r2  
⇒ f12 = k3 (k3-some constant) r2  T2   T2 
r2
m1m2 gen rL = R, T1 = 32, T2 = 256
⇒f∝
2
r ⇒ r1 = 4R
Hence newton’s law of gravity is deduced. 3
∴  r 2
Sol 25: T1 = T2 =  1  (kepler’s 3rd law)
Sol 22: Newton’s law of universal gravitation states that  r2 
every point mass in the universe attracts every other r1 1
point mass with a force that is directly proportional to =
r2 2
the product of their masses and inversely proportional 3
to the square of distance between them.  1 2
∴ T1 = 365   = 129 days
m1m2 2
f∝
r2 1 year would have 129 days.
Gravitational constant (G) is a empirical physical
constant involved in the calculation of gravitational
 P hysi cs | 10.49

Sol 26: For planetary motion, ∆r ∆g

× 100 = 2.5% ; ⇒ × 100 = –2(–2.5)
r g
1 GMm 2GM
mv2 = ;⇒V=
2 r r = 5%
∴ Acceleration due to gravity increases by 5%
2πr π3
V= ; ⇒ T = 2π Note :- Try focusing on the sign convention. It you get
T 2GM
confused, use common sense which implies when body
(2π)2 .r3 gets denser, its g increases like a black hole, etc.
⇒M=
2GT2
1
2 11 3 Sol 30: g ∝
4.π .(1.49 × 10 ) r2
=
–11 2
2 × 6.66 × 10 × (365 × 24 × 3600) g1 r 
2

=  2  ; ⇒ r2 = r1 g1
= 1.972 × 1030 kg
g2  r1  g2
g1
= 2 ; ⇒ r2 = r1 2
(2π)2 r 3 (2π)2 r 3 g2
Sol 27: M = ;⇒G=
2GT2 2MT2
Height = r2 – r1 = r1 . ( 2 –1)
r = 1.5 × 1011 m
= 2649.6 km
T = 365.3 days = 365.3 × 24 × 3600 seconds
M = 2 × 1030 Kg 1
Sol 31: wt ∝
r2
2 11 3
4( π) .(1.5 × 10 ) 2
⇒G= r 
2 × 2 × 10 30
× (365.3 × 24 × 3600) 2
w2 = w1 .  1 
 r2 
= 6.69× 10–11 m2/Kg–2
r1 = 6000 km
Note: For calculation purpose, you may take p2 = 10
r2 = 6600, 18000, 2400 (r2 = r1 + h)
GM w1 = 80 kg wt.
Sol 28: g =
r2
for r2 = 6600
gr 2  6000 
2
M= w2 = 80 
G  = 66.12 kg wt
 6600 
9.8 × (6.37 × 106 )2
= = 6.025 × 1024 kg for r2 = 18000
(6.66 × 10 –11 )
2
M gr 2 1  6000 
Mean density = = . w2 = 80   = 8.89 kg wt
4 3
πr
G 4 3
πr  18000 
3 3
for r2 = 24000
3 g 3 9.8
= = × 2
4 Gr 4 6.66 × 10 × 6.37 × 106
–11  6000 
w2 = 80   = 5 kg.wt
 24000 
Mean density (e) = 5.56 × 103 kg/m3
GM
Sol 32: g at a depth x, gx = (r0 – x)
GM dg 2GM r03
Sol 29: g = ; =–
r2 dr r3 GM
g at a height h, gh =
–2GM (r0 + h)2
2GM ∆g r3 Dr gx = gh
⇒ Dg = – Dr ; =
r 3 g GM By substituting we get solution
2
r But for some intelligent manipulation
∆g  ∆r  ∆g ∆r
= – 2 ; × 100 = – 2 × 100
g  r  g r
1 0 . 5 0 | Gravitation

gm –GMx
gx = (r0 – x) ⇒ Dg = 1 1 1 v2
r03 r03 = –
r R 2 gR 2
GM
g= 1 1 1 102
r03 = – ×
r 6400 2 9.8 × 10 –3 × (6400)2
2GM
Dg = – Dr (Differentiation) r = 2.56 × 104 km
x2

∴ g is equal ⇒ Dg is equal GM
Sol 35: Orbital velocity v =
r
2GM GM x
⇒– Dr = – x ; ⇒ Dr =
r03 r03 2 GM gR 2
= =
R +H R +H
Dr = n
160 g = 9.8 ms–1
x = 160km ; ⇒ h = = 80 km
2 R = 6.38 × 10–6
⇒ It is same at a height 80 km H = 250 km = 2.5 × 105
Note: h<<r0 is assumed hence we could apply this method v = 7756.6 ms–1
of differentiation
2πr 2π(R + H)
T= =
v v
Sol 33: Energy required = Total change in energy Initial
T = 5373 s
GMm
energy = –
R
Sol 36: Let orbital velocity = v
Find energy = P. E + K. E
GM
GMm 1 ⇒v= where m = Mass, R = Radius of point
=– + mv2 R
3R 2
(r = 3R because altitude = 2R) 2πR R3
T= = 2π .... (i)
For orbital motion, centrifugal force = Gravitational for v GM 

mv 2 GMm 4 3
= M= pR ρ
r r2 3
1 GMm R3
mv2 = ⇒ T = 2π
2 2r 4
G. πR3ρ
GMm 3
= (substitute r = 3R)
6R
3
GMm GMm GMm =2π = 5064 s
⇒ Final energy = – =– 4 πGρ
6R 3R 6R

GMm  GMm 
⇒ Energy required = – –   Sol 37: For escape velocity
6R  R 
1 GMm
mv 2e =
5GMm 2 R
=
6R
2GM
ve =
Sol 34: Kinetic energy = Change in potential energy R

1 GMm  GMm  ve = 2gR

⇒ mv2 = – –  
2 r  R 
1 1 1 v2 = 2 × 1.63 × 17 × 106
⇒ = –
r R 2 GM
= 2.354×103 ms–1
 P hysi cs | 10.51

rρ = constant
M
Sol 38: ve ∝
R r2 ρ1 1  ρ2 
∴ = =  = 5 given 
r1 ρ2 5  ρ1 
vm Mm Re
= × 1
ve Rm Me ∴ Radius to be changed by a factor of
5
M   D 
vm = ve  m  ×  e  
 M  R 
 e   m Sol 4: (B) T = 2π
g
Mm 1
given = =
Me 9 1 GM
T∝ ;g=
Re g r2
=2
Rm
1 r T1 r1 M2
2 2 = ; =
⇒ vm = ve =2 = 5.28 kms–1 g M T2 r2 M1
9 9

Mm = Mass of planet mass  

T2 = T1  r2 M1 
Rm = Radius of planet mass  r1 M2 
 
r2 M1 1
= 2; = ; T = 2seconds
r1 M2 2 1
Exercise 2
 1 
∴ T2 = (2×2)   = 2 2 second
 2
Single Correct Choice Type
Note: Time period of a seconds pendulum is 2
1 seconds.
Sol 1: (B) g ∝
r2
2
g1 r  r g1 Sol 5: (C) Inside the shell, the gravitational field due to
=  2  ; ⇒ 2 = = 4 sphere is zero, but there is gravity due to particle.
g2  r1  r1 g2

⇒ r2 = 2R ; ⇒ altitude h = r2 – R v2 g v2 g
Sol 6: (A) g – = ;⇒ =
h=R R 2 R 2

2GM 1 GM
Sol 2: (A) Net acceleration at equator ve = = (4R)
R 2 R2
g’ = g – Rω2
(Rω2 is radial acceleration) g v2
=   (4R) = (4R)
∴ Weight at equator mg’ = mg – mRω2 2 R

acceleration at a depth d ve = 2v
g(R– d) g
⇒ gd = =g– d
R R M
Sol 7: (A) v ∝
given mgd = mg’ R
4
mgd R 2 ω2 π.R 3ρ
⇒ mg – mRω = mg –
2
⇒d= M 3
R g = ∝ R2 ; ⇒ v ∝ R
R R
GM vA RA
Sol 3: (B) g =
r2 ⇒ = =2
vB RB
4 3 4
m= pr ρ ; ⇒ g = prr
3 3
1 0 . 5 2 | Gravitation

24
2GM ∴ Time for successful interval interval = = 12 Hrs
Sol 8: (B) ve = 2
R

GMm Sol 14: (A) Let centre of mass be at a distance  from

P.E at surface =
R 4m
3GMm ⇒ 4 m  = m(d –  )
P.E at centre of earth =
2R
d
1 GMm ⇒  =
KE = DPE = 5
2 R
d 4d
⇒ Orbital radius of 4 m = ,m=
1 1 GMm GM 5 5
mv2 = ;⇒v=
2 2 R R Both bodies have same angular velocities
ve v
= ⇒ = constant
2 r
⇒ v = Kr (K = constant)
Sol 9: (B) Potential at surface = Potential at center for kd 4kd
hollow sphere vam = = , vm =
5 5
GM 1
Potential P = – (4m)(v 4m )2 2
r KEam 2  1 1
= =4   =
r = radius KEm 1 4 4
m(v m )2
GM 2
Let P0 = –
r0
Sol 15: (C) C-options defines the information about
GM 2GM
new potential P = – =– the escape velocities
r0 r0
2 B-option it is elliptical path
P < P0
∴ Decreases Sol 16: (D) Change in potential energy
GMm GMm GMm
∆E = – =
1 R 2R 2R
Sol 10: (B) g ∝
r2 Final velocity or orbital velocity

Sol 11: (A) In A, both 5M forces, cancel each other GM

v0 =
hence net force is proportional to (3M – M) and M (at 2R
center)
Change in P.E = Change in K.E.
The same is for B. 1 2
GMm 1
∴ FA = FB = mv2 – 2 mv 0
2R 2
Similarly fC ∝ (3m–m)2m ∴ fC > fB 1 GMm 1 GM
2 mv = 2R + 4 m . R
2
same is for FD
∴ FC = fD 3 GMm
1
∴ mv2 = 4 R
FA = FB < FC = FD 2
1 3
2 mv = 4 mgR
2
Sol 12: (B) It moves tangentially as there is no
centripetal force.
3
∴ Energy required is mgR
4
Sol 13: (C) Time period of a geo stationary satellite is
24 hrs but due to the given situation, it moves twice
above same point in one day
 P hysi cs | 10.53

1 1 dA
Sol 17: (D) K.E ∝ V∝ ;∴ ∝ r
r r dt
∴ A is K.E.
∴ ratio of their area velocity
Total energy > Potential energy,
r1 1
1 = = =1:2
total energy, potential energy ∝ - r2 4
r
∴ C is total energy GM
Sol 23: (A) Field due to gravity E1 =
B is potential energy R2
4 3 4
m= pR ; ∴ E1 = πGrR
Sol 18: (C) Kepler’s 2nd law, areal velocity is constant. 3 3
Field due to infinite plate E2 = 2prtG
Sol 19: (B) Let final velocity of 4 M be V1 (t =H) = 2pρHG
5MV = 4MV1 – MV E1 = E2
(Conservation of linear momentum) 4 2R
∴ πGrR = 2pρHG ; ⇒ H =
3 3 3
⇒ V1 = V
2
Sol 24: (C) Maximum speed occurs at least distance
GM
now V = dA 1
r = rmin vmax.
dt 2
2GM 1
Ve = = 2 V= V1 > 2V 4 × 1016 = × 2 × 1012 × v
r 2
v = 4 × 104 ms–1
i.e., V1 > Ve
∴ v = 40 kms–1
⇒ Body gets unbound

Sol 20: (C) T ∝ r3/2

3 Previous Years’ Questions
T2 1  r 2 1
= ;  2  =
T1 2  r1  2 GM
Sol 1: (C) g =
2
R2
 1 3 r 1
⇒ r2 = r1 = or g ∝
  1
2 R2
(4)3
g will increase if R decreases
Sol 21: (A) Consider the planet to be at one of the
mgh
vertex. Sol 2: (A) DU =
h
Let its distance from sun be r, velocity be v. 1+
R
Area covered in time dT Given, h = R
1 2dA
dA = rv. dT ; = vr mgR 1
2 dt DU = = mgR
R 2
2mdA dA A 1+
mvr = ; = R
dt dt T
2mA mv 2
∴ Angular momentum = Sol 3: (B) ∝ R–5/2∴ v ∝ R–3/4
T R
2πR
dA Now, T =
Sol 22: (A) ∝ rv v
dt
1 0 . 5 4 | Gravitation

2 Just to escape from the gravitational pull, its total

R  mechanical energy should be zero therefore, its kinetic
or T ∝  
2

v energy should be + mv2

2
 R 
or T2 ∝ 
–3/ 4  Sol 9: (C)
R 
or T2 ∝ R7/2 2GM 2G × 10M
Vesc = = = 10 × 11 = 110km / s
R R / 10
Sol 4: (B) From Kepler’s third law
T2 ∝ r3 or T ∝ (r)3/2 Sol 10: (B) g = GM/r2
3/2
T2 r 
∴ =  2  GM
Sol 11: (A) g' = , acceleration due to gravity at
T1  r1  height h (R + h)2
3/2 3/2
 1
or T2 = T1  r2  = (365)   g GM R 2  R 
2
r 
 1 2 =
⇒ = g 
9 R (R + h)
2 2
R +h
T2 ≈ 129 days 1  R 
2
R 1
=
⇒   ⇒=
9 R +h R +h 3
1 T2 g1 ⇒ 3R = R + h ⇒ 2R = h
Sol 5: (D) T ∝ i.e., =
g T1 g2
Sol 12: (C) Position of the null point from mass m,
where g1 = Acceleration due to gravity on
r r
Earth’s surface =x =
4m 3
1+
=g m
g2 = Acceleration due to gravity at a height  3 12  Gm
V=
−Gm  +  = −9
h = R from earth’s surface = g/4  r 2r  r
 
  Sol 13: (D) To launch the spaceship out into free space,
 g  T2 g
Using g(h) = =2 from energy conservation,
2 T g/4
  h  1
 1 +   −GMm
  R  +E = 0
R
GMm  GM 
Sol 6: (C) Time period of a satellite very close to = E =  = mR mgR
R  R2 
earth’s surface is 84.6 min. Time period increases as
the distance of the satellite from the surface of earth = 6.4 x 1010 J
increase. So, time period of spy satellite orbiting a few
100 km above the earth’s surface should be slightly 1 GmM 1 GM GmM GmM  1  −GMm
Sol 14: (A) Ef = mv 20 − = m − =  − 1 =
greater than 84.6 min. Therefore. The most appropriate 2 3R 2 3R 3R 3R  2  6R
option is (C) or 2 h.
1 2 GmM 1 GM GmM GmM  1  −GMm
Ef = mv 0 − = m − =  − 1 =
2 3R 2 3R 3R 3R  2  6R
Sol 7: (D) In case of binary star system angular velocity
and hence the time period of both the stars are equal. = −GMm
Ei +K
R
Sol 8: (B) In circular orbit of a satellite, potential energy Ei = Ef
5GmM
= – 2 × (kinetic energy) K=
6R
1
=–2× mv2 = – mv2
2
 P hysi cs | 10.55

Sol 15: (B) Potential at point P due to complete solid JEE Advanced/Boards
sphere
Exercise 1
GM  2  R  
2

=
− 3R −  
2R 3   2   Sol 1: 
GM  2 R 
2
P
=
−  3R −  d
2R 3  4 
 consider a small strip of rod of length d  at a distance
GM  11R 
2
 =
11GM  from the small mass. Let the mass of strip be dm
=
− −
3  4  8R
2R   GM
df = dm (df= force of attraction between the strip
2
Potential at point P due to cavity part and small mass)
M
G dm = σ dl
3 8 −3GM
= − = −
2 R 8R where σ is linear density of rod
2 M
σ=
So potential due to remaining part at point P 2L
GM
−11GM  −3GM  ⇒ df = . sdl
= −  2
−11GM
8R  −3GM
8R 
= −   integrating from L to 3L
8R + 3GM
−11GM  8R −GM
=
−11GM8R+ 3GM −GM R f 3L
GM
=
8R R ∫ df = ∫ 2
σ d
0 L

32
GmM GMm 1
Sol 16: (C) = f = GMσ. –
(R + h)2 R L2
v GM
v= 2
f = GMσ.
R 3L
1 h 2 GMm
mv − 0
= M 2
2 1 R = GM . .
2GM 2L 3L
v1 =R
R
GM2
GM F=
∆V
= ( =
2 − 1) gR( 2 − 1) 3L2
R
GmM GMm Note: Try understanding the boundary conditions. It is
GmM = GMm
2 = R
(RGmM
+ h) most important aspect of physics. Here it is integrated
(R + h)2 = GMm R
from L to 3L because the rod starts from distance L till
(RGmM
+ h)GM
2 GMm
= R
v = GM distance 3L from the small mass.
2
v(R=+ h)GMR R
v1 = R GMm
2GM
= 12 R
v1 mv
mv
− GMm =
− GMm
0
0
2
1 2R R = 2GM
2 1
mv1 2GM− R = 0 Sol 2: vc =
1 2 GMm R
v21mv − R =
= 1 2GM 0
v21 = 2GM R R
v1 = R Kinetic energy = Change in potential energy
GM
2GM
R ( =
v V=
=
∆ GM 2 − 1) gR( 2 − 1)
∆1V
= RR ( =
GM 2 − 1) gR( 2 − 1) 1 GMm  GMm 
∆V
= R ( =
2 − 1) gR( 2 − 1) mv2 = – – – 
GMR ( = 2 r  R 
∆V
= 2 − 1) gR( 2 − 1)
R
1 GMm GMm
m.(k . ve)2 = –
2 R r
1 0 . 5 6 | Gravitation

1 1 1 GM 1 1 GMm GMm
⇒ – = . m . k2 . 2 . mv2 = –
R r 2 R GMm 2 a a2 + L2
1 1 k2
⇒ – =
R r R 1 GMm
mv2 = ( a2 + L2 –a)
R 2 2 2
a (a +  )
⇒r=
1– k 2
2GM
height = r – R v= ( a2 + 2 – a)
2 2
a a +
R k 2R
= –R=
1– R 2 1– k 2 Here given  = a
k 2R
Hence it will rise to a height of
1– k 2 2GM ( 2 – 1)
⇒v=
a 2
Sol 3: Consider a small path on the ring of length d  ,
which subtends an angle dθ at the center. Let its mass 2GM  1 
be dM v= 1– 
a  2

Sol 4: Let the height be h

GM
g= (above the surface)
(R + h)2

g below the surface

GM(R – h)
g=
R3
d  = a dq
GM GM(R – h)
⇒ =
dM = σ d  (R + h)2 R3
M
r = Linear density of ring = ⇒ h3 + h2R – hR2 = 0
2πa
M M h = 0 (which is an obvious solution)
⇒ dM = . a dθ = dq
2πa 2π h2 + hR – R2 = 0
Let the particle be at a distance < along the axis from
R ± 3R 2
center. h=–
2
Potential energy due to → Mass patch
3 –1 ∴
GM h= ( h > 0)
dE = .dM (m = mass of particles) 2
r
GM M
= . dq Sol 5: (i) Maximum height = 8R
r 2π
⇒ Distance from center of earth (r)
r= L2 + a2
= 8R + R
E 2π
GMm 1 =9R
∫ dE = ∫ .
2π
dq
Kinetic energy = Change in potential energy
0 0 L2 + a2

GMm 2π GMm 1 GMm  GMm 

E= × = mv2 = – – – 
2π L2 + a2 2 9R  R 
K 2 + a2
1  8 
Kinetic energy = Change in potential energy mv2 = GMm  
2  9R 
 P hysi cs | 10.57

16GM 4 GM GM2  R
v= ;v= –  x– 
9R 3 R R3  2

(ii) Half minimum height = 4R for x > R

⇒ r = 4R + R = 5R E = E1 – E2
GM GM
1 GMm  GMm  =– +
⇒ mv2 = – – –  x 2
 R
2
2 9R  5R  8 x – 
 2
 
8GM 2 2GM  
⇒v= ;v= GM  1 8 
45R 3 5R =  – 
8  R
2
x2 
 k –  
 2 
Sol 6: We use principal of superposition gravitation
field due to sphere I 4 3
M= pR ρ0
GM 3
E1 = – ; x > R,  
x2  3

πGρ0R  1 8 
⇒E=  – 
6  R
2
x2 
 x – 2  
  
for x < R
E = E1 – E2

GM GM  R
=– x+ x– 
GM 3 3  2
=– .x ; x < R R R 
R3
GM
E=
Let M2 mass of sphere II 2R 2
R If is independent of x, hence uniform
Here the center is at hence distance function is
2
R
R– . Sol 7: Potential energy due to planet, at a distance r
2
from its cents
Assume sphere is uniform
G(3M)m
4 P.E1 = – ; 2R < r < 5R
⇒ M = pR3 r
3
3
Potential due to plant 2
4 R  1 4 3 M
m2 = π   =  πR  = GMm
3 2 8 3  8 P.E2 = – ; R < r < 4R
(6R – r)
GM2
E2 = – 2
x < 0, x > R
 R
x – 
 2

GM2  R P.E = P.E1 + P.E2

– 3 
x –  0<x<R
R   2 3GMm GMm
=– –
  r 6R – r
2
GM 3 1 
=– x <0, x > R E(r) = – GMm  + 
 R
2
 r 6R –r
8 R – 
 2 Differentiating
1 0 . 5 8 | Gravitation

dE  3 1  4 πbG reρ
= – GMm – 2 – (–1) v=
dr  r (6R – r)  3

For maximum E1 dE = 0 Escape velocity Ve =

2GM
dr r
3 1
⇒– + =0
r2 (6R – r)2 2G 4 3 16πρ rP2
= . πr .2ρ =
rP 3 p 3
6 3R
⇒r=
3 +1 v= ve

For particle to reach other side it is sufficient if its 4 π bG reρ 16πρ rP2
velocity is zero at ⇒ =
3 3
6 3R
r0 = bre
3 +1 ⇒ rP =
2
i.e., K.E = 0 at this point
4 × 10 –3 × 6400
6 3R =
∴ Speed is minimum at r0 = 2
3 +1
rP = 6.4 km
= 3R(3 – 3 )
Potential energy at x = 2R Maximum radius of planet is 6.4 km

∴ PE1 + PE2
GM
Sol 9: V = where V = Orbital velocity
G.3M GMm 17GMm r
= – =–
2R 6R – R 10R
GM GM
Potential energy at x = 5 R V1 = , V2= (r = R + height)
2R 3R
⇒ PE1 + PE2
V
Angular velocity w=
G(3M)m GMm R
=– –
5R 6R – R
V GM 1 GM
8 GMm ω1 = ;ω2 =
=– PE(2r) < PE(5R) 2R 2R 3R 3R
5 R
Relative angular velocity ωR = ω1 + ω2
PE(r0) – PE(2r) > PE(r0) – PE(5R)
Hence it has maximum speed at x = 2R GM  1 1 
=  + 
3
R 2 2 3 3
v2
Sol 8: Maximum range = 2π 2π
g t= =
wR GM 2 2 + 3 3
v2
b= R3 6 6
g
3
bGM 2πR 2 (6 6)
v= bg = ∴t=
re2 GM(2 2 + 3 3)
4 3
M= pr ρ
3 Sol 10: Let d be distance between them. Distance of
centre of mass from m
bG 4 3
⇒v= . πre ρ Md 2d
r2 3
e
r1 = ; r1 =
m+M 3
 P hysi cs | 10.59

GMm 2GM2 2π
F= = Sol 13: ω1 =
d2 2
d T
Angular velocity of earth
Gravitational force = Centrifugal force
2π
mv12 ωe = (T0 = 24 Hz)
2GM2 4GM T0
= ; ⇒ v1 =
d2 2d 3d ωr = ω1 + ωe or ω1 – ωe
3 –1
2π 2π T ±T
2d 3 T= = =  0 
2π
T=
2π
r1 = 3 = 2 πd 2 ωr 2π 2π
±  T0 T 
v1 4GM 3GM T T0
–1 –1 –1
3d  24 ± 1.5   17  5
Ms =   =   hrs,   hrs
m= (Ms = Mass of surfs)  24 × 1.5   24  8
3
3
2πd2 Sol 14: For a satellite
∴T=
GMs 1
3 |K.E| = |P.E.| = |total energy|
2
2πd2
Time period of earth Te = E1 = – 2 × 105 J
GMs
⇒ U1 = – 4 × 10–5, K1 = 2 × 105
given T = Te ; ⇒ d = R
U2 = – 2 × 10–5
–G.MM
i j
Sol 11: Total energy = ∑ ⇒ E1 = – 1 × 10–5 J
i< j rij
∆E = 1 × 105 J
 M2  6GM2 ∴ Energy required is 105 J
= – G  × (S3) = –
 a  a
  GMm
Sol 15: Total energy = – , r = Radius
6GM2 2r
Final energy = –
2a
GMm  1 1
6GM2 6GM2 ∴ Change is energy =  – 
Change in energy = – + 
2a a
2  Re r 
t = Change in energy
6GM2
=
2a GMm  1 1
⇒t=  – 
6GM2 2C 
∴ Work done is  Re r 
2a

GM Sol 16:
Sol 12: Potential =
r
1 1 
∴ Change in potential = GMm  – 
 R 2R 
GMm
=
2R
K.E. = Charge in P.E
Angle of view = 2q
1 GMm GM
mv2 = ;v= R 2π
2 2R R = 2cos–1 2R = 2(60°) = 120° =
3
Inside sphere v is constant 2π
Angular velocity of earth ωe =
T0
2R R3
∴ Time = =2 (T0 = 24 Hrs)
v GM
1 0 . 6 0 | Gravitation

GM (b) At maximum distance, they are mutually

Angular velocity of satellite ω = perpendicular radially about the winter of planet
8R 3
 GM  ∴ Maximum distance = 2r
ω = 
 r 

2GM
Relative angular velocity ωr = ω – ωe (c) Their relative velocity = 2V=
R
GM θ 2π
= – ωe ; T = = Sol 19: Gravitational force
8R 3 ω  Gm 
3 – ωe  GMm
 8R 3  F=
 
r2
Sol 17: Let final velocity of launch pad be x GMm
⇒ ∆F = – Dr
r3
⇒ 3mv0 = m(x + v0) + 2m(x)
∴ Net force at a height r + Dr
2v 0
⇒x= ..... (i)
3  GMm  2∆r 
= 1– 
Angular momentum = mvr r2  r 
2v 0 Centrifugal force f = mrw2
=m. . (3Rm)
3
Df = mw2Dr
L = 2mv0 Rm ..... (i)
∴ Net centrifugal force – f + Df
Angular momentum is constant
 ∆r 
∴ mvx . Rm = L = mrw2 1 + r 
 
⇒ mvx . Rm = 2mv0Rm
 ∆r  GMm  2∆r 
vx = 2v0 ...... (ii) = mrw2 1 + r  – 1– 
  r2  r 
∆KE = DPt ∆r GMm 2∆r
1 1  1 1  = mrw2 r +
⇒ mv2 – mx2 = GMm  –  r2 r
2 2  Rm 3Rm 
 2  GMm
⇒ v2 = x2 + 2GM   mrw2 = =mg (∴ satellite moon)
r2
 3Rm 
Now satellite equals ∆r 64 × 10 –3
∴ T = 3Mg =3×100×10 ×
r 6400
GM GM
v= ; ⇒ v0 = T = 3 × 10–2 N
r 3Rm

GM  GMm   GMm 
⇒ = v 20 ; ⇒ v2 = x2 + 4 v 20 Sol 21: (i) P.E =  –
3Rm  3 + 3– 
 R   3R 
2v 0 2
x= ;⇒v= 10 vx 3GM  m 
3 3 =–  + m
R  3 
vx 2v 0
cosθ = ; ⇒ θ = cos–1 (ii) Centrifugal force = Force towards center
v 2 10
v0
3 mv 2 GMm  GMm 3 
3 = +  . R
3 R R 2  ( 3R)2 2 
⇒ cos θ = ⇒ θ = cos–1  
10 10
 GM (2 3 + R) 
⇒v= 
GM  R 2 3 
Sol 18: (a) Orbital velocity V = 
R
 P hysi cs | 10.61

Sol 22: Surface area of earth A = 4pR2 Lm

=2
LM
1
(c) k = mv2
2
1 2
mv m 2
km 2 m  rm  1
= = .   = (2)2
kM 1 2 2m  rM  2
mv
2 m
R km
cos θ =
x kM = 2
Area covered by the satellite on surface of earth
A1 = 2pR2(1 – cos θ) Sol 24:
where θ is semi-vertical angle
∴ Area out of reach = A – A1
= 4pR2 – 2pr2 (1 – cos θ)
= 2pR2(1 + cos θ)
 R
= 2pR2 1 + x 
  Let S be satellite, M Mumbai, C center of earth.
φ = 30°
Sol 23: (a) M = 2m
let SC = r
md
Center of mass from m (r1)
m+m MC = R
2d d ⇒ r sin φ = (r cos φ – R) tan q
= ; ⇒ r2 =
3 3   2
GMm  sin φ   T GM  3
Force between them (t)= ⇒ θ = tan–1   ;r=  
d2  cos φ – R   2π 
   
2GM 2  r 
=
d2 T = 24 Hr
Let velocity of mass m be v1 GM = R g
mv12 mv12 2GM2 R = radius of earth
= (F) ; ⇒ =
r1 2d d2
Upon substitution we get
3
2π 2πr
 32 
4GM θ = cot–1  3 – 105 
⇒ v1 = ;T= =
3d w v  

2d
2π × Sol 25: Angular velocity be ω
3 = 4π 3d3 2πd3/2
= =
4GM 3 4GM 3GM mrω2 = mg
3d 2π (2π)2
ω= ; mR. = mg
vm vM T T2
(b) =
rm rM
R
2 T = 2π
Lm 1 r 
mv mrm 1 g
= –  m  = (2)2
LM 2mv mrm 2  rM  2
GM
g=
R2
1 0 . 6 2 | Gravitation

G 4 3  ∆v ∆r 
= . pR r ∆L = mvr  + 
R 2 3  v r 

R
∴ T = 2π GMm GMm
4 U=– ; Du = Dr
GR. πρ r r2
3
1
3π k= mv2
T= 2
Gρ
Dk = mv Du
Du = – 2Dk

Exercise 2 GMm
Dr = – 2mvDu
r2
Multiple Correct Choice Type
GMm 1 
∆r = 2  mv 2 
Sol 1: (A, D) r 2
 2 
GM ∆r 2∆v  ∆r 
g= ; r > R =– ; ⇒ ∆L = mvr  
r 2 r v  2r 
GM Dr < 0
r; r<R
2
R ⇒ ∆L < 0

Sol 2: (A, D) f12 = f21

Sol 5: (B, D) Communication satellites are geo
⇒ m1a1 = m2a2 stationary.
⇒ if m1 < m2
Sol 6: (A, C, D) Only potential energy increase
∴ a1 > a2
GMm
Total energy is constant, by law of conservation of P.E = –
r
energy centre of mass is in motion in the reference
from of the masses. 1
v decrease; v ∝
r
Sol 3: (B, C, D) Everywhere gravitational field is zero and hence angular velocity and centripetal acceleration
which is same everywhere inside the spherical shell. decreases as r increases.
dE
Everywhere potential is same as – =0
dx Sol 7: (A, D) Acceleration is always directed towards
i.e., gravitational field is same. Potential inside sphere is centre of earth. Centripetal force.
equal to that on surface.
1
Sol 8: (A, B, C) v ∝ , T ∝ r3/2
Sol 4: (A, C) The satellite will always be in orbital r
motion at every instant ∴ Speed is maximum and time period is minimum
|u| = 2|k| Potential energy is minimum
|Du| = 2|Dk|  1
P.E ∝  – 
u = – 2k  r
⇒ Du = – 2Dk
∴ Sol 9: (A, D) Satellite has to be above equator at some
Du is –ve time
hence kinetic energy increases 2
r r
T = 2π   . ; r = radius of orbit
L = mvr R  g
 P hysi cs | 10.63

Comprehension type
R
> 2π
g Paragraph 1:
2
∴ r
r > R,   > 1 Sol 16: (B) Let P.E at ∞ = 0
R 
GM1M2
Final P.E =
d
Sol 10: (A, B, D) T ∝ R3/2
final distance between center of masses
∴ S1 : S2 = 13/2 : 43/2 = 1 : 8
d = R + 2R = 3R
1
v∝ ⇒ v1 : v2 = 4 : 1 = 2 : 1
1/2 1/2
mass of small sphere is m
r
Angular momentum L ∝ r1/2 mass of smaller sphere
3 3
L1 : L2 = 1 : 41/2 = 1 : 2 R   2R 
= m  2  = m  
Let velocities be 2k, k R
  R 
Relative velocities are 3k, k =8m
i.e. v1 : v2 =3 : 1 GM.8m 8GM2
Final energy = =
Relative radii = 4R + R, 4R – R 3R 3R
Let initial velocities be v1, v2
= 5R, 3R
Let final velocities be v3, v4
i.e. R1 : R2 =4 : 3.
v since centre of mass is at rest
ω=  
R v3 = – e v1
3 1
∴ ω1 : ω2 = :
5 3 (e = Coefficient of restitution)
ω1 : ω2 = 9 : 5 1
|V3| = |V |
2 1
2
Assertion Reasoning Type 1 1 1 
⇒ mv 32 = m  v 
2 2 2 
Sol 11: (C) There is no such real radial force. It only
appears in moon’s frame of reference as centrifugal 1 1 2
=  mv 
force. 4 2 1 

1 2 1 1 2
Sol 12: (B) Statement-I is true because there is no net Similarly mv 4 =  mv 
acceleration downward in it. 2 4 2 2

1 2 1
Sol 13: (D) Geostationary satellites have fixed orbital ∴ Final energy = mv + mv 24
radius and do have 24 hours of time period of revolution. 2 3 2

1 1 2 1 2
Sol 14: (D) Statement-I is only true long distances =  mv + mv 
4 2 1 2 2
between them.

1  8Gm2 
Sol 15: (A) For travel, energy required =  
4  3R 
 
= maximum P.E – P.E at surface
2Gm2
=
3R
1 0 . 6 4 | Gravitation

Sol 17: (A) Change in P.E = kinetic energy Note: Study the self-energy of objects here is a
derivation.
2GM2  8GM2 
= P.E – –  Consider a sphere of density ρ and initial radius r initial
3R  3R 
 4 3
mass m = pr ρ
6GM2 GM(8M) 3
⇒ PE = =
3R 4R Let additional mass added
dm = 4pr2.drρ
\Maximum distance between them is 4R
GMdm
Note:- Try deriving the result Increase is energy dE =
r
→ → 4
V 3 = – e V1 used in the problem. Here centre of mass G. πr3ρ . 4 πr 2drρ
dE = 3
is at rest.
r

Paragraph 2: (4 π)2 2
dE = r . G. r4 . dr
3
Sol 18: (B) Area of ASBC > ASBD R
(4 π)2 2 r5
∴ t1 > t2
E= ∫ dE = 3
r .G.
5
0

Kepler’s 2 law
nd
M
ρ= (M is final mass)
4 3
Sol 19: (C) |u| > |k| always πR
3
R5 ( 4 π )
2
Because if |k| ≥ |u| body escapes from the suns m2
⇒E= . ×
gravitational force 2 5 3
 4π  6
  R
 3 
Paragraph 3:
3GM2
E=
Sol 20: (B) Self energy of a uniform sphere of radius R 5R
and mass M is given by
3GM2 Paragraph 4:
E=–
5R
1
∴ Change in energy Sol 22: (D) 1 Bose = Newton
c
3GM2  1 1 Let T be tension in the string.
=–  – 
5 R / 2 R 
Let a1, a2 be acceleration of m1, m2 downward
2
3GM
=  gm2 
5R  1
–T
energy a=  c c
Increase in temperature =  m2 
M.S  1 
 
3GM2 1
= . gm12
5R M.S where is downward r gravitational force on m1
3GM c
=  gm2 
5RS  2
–T
Similarly a2 =  c c
3GM  m2 
Sol 21: (A) T0 =  
5RS  
5SRT0 a1 + a2 = 0 by constrain equation
M=
3G
 P hysi cs | 10.65

 gm2 – T   gm2 – T  F1 r1
 1 c +  2  =0
= for r1 < R and r2 < R
 m2   m2  F2 r2
 1   2  GM 1
And for r ≤ R, F = or F ∝
2
 m2m2  1 r r2
⇒ T = 2g  1 2 . F1 r22
 m2 + m2  c i.e., = for r1 > R and r2 > R
 1 2  F2 r12
2 × 5 × 22 × 42 1
= . Sol 4: T ∝ r3/2 v2
2 2 c
2 +4 T2
2/3
or r ∝ T
32  v1 T1
T= 2/3
c r2 T 
=  2  r1
r2
T = 32 Bose r1  T1 
Note: If you do not know bose, try guessing what it could 2/3 2/3
be. 1 newton is the force which is produced when an T  8
r2=  2  r1=   (10 4 =
) 4 × 10 4 km
object of mass 1 kg moves with an acceleration of 1 ms–2.  T1   1
Similarly define bose. This is the best assumption you can
do with the given amount of information. 2 π r1 (2 π)(10 4 )
Now, v1 = = = 2 π × 10 4 km / h
T1 1
gm2
Sol 23: (B) Force due to gravity F = =gm2 bose
c 2 π r2 (2 π)(4 × 10 4 )
v2
= = = ( π×10 4 ) km/ h
force along slope f1 = f sin q T2 8
f = f1 (a) Speed of S2 relative to S1
= f sin q
= v 2 − v1 = −π× 10 4 km / h
= gm2sin θ bose
(b) Angular speed of S2 as observed by S1
1
= 5 × (2)2.
2  5 
π×10 4 × m / s
= 10 bose | v 2 − v1 |  18 
=ωr =
| r2 − r1 | (3 × 107 m)

Previous Years’ Questions = 0.3 × 10 −3 rad / s= 3 × 10 −4 rad / s

Sol 1: (A) Force acting on astronaut is utilized in Sol 5: Centre should be at O and radius r. We can
providing necessary centripetal force, thus he fells calculate r from figure (b).
weightlessness, as he is in a state of free fall.

Sol 2: (A) The gravitational field is zero at the centre of a a

a solid sphere. The small spheres can be considered as O F
negative mass m located at A and B. The gravitational
o
30 r r
Fnet
field due to these masses at O is equal and opposite. 30o 30o
Hence, the resultant field at O is zero.
o o
a 30 30
a/2 F
(c and d) → are correct because plane of these circles
(a) (b) (c)
is y-z, i.e., perpendicular to x-axis i.e., potential at any
point on these two circles will be equal due to the
positive mass M and negative masses – m and – m. a/2 3 a
= cos=
30° ∴r =
r 2 3
GM
Sol 3: (B) For r ≤ R. F = , r or F ∝ r Further net force on any particle towards centre
R3
 1 0 . 6 6 | Gravitation

=Fnet 2F cos 30° Now, the body of mass m is projected from the surface
of larger star towards the smaller one. Between C2 and
 3
P it is attracted towards 2 and between C1 and P it will
 Gm2 3 Gm2
=2   = be attracted towards 1
 a2  2  a2
  
M M
mv 2
This net force should be equal to
r C1 r1 P r2 C2
a
2a
3 Gm2 mv 2 Gm
∴ = ∴ v=
a2 a/ 3 a 1 2

Time period of circular motion Therefore, the body should be projected to just cross
point P because beyond that the particle is attracted
2 π r 2 π (a/ 3) a3 towards the smaller star itself.
=T = = 2π
v Gm / a 3 Gm 1
From conservation of mechanical energy mv 2min
2
Sol 6: (a) Orbital speed of a satellite at distance r from = Potential energy of the body at P – Potential energy
centre of earth, at the surface of larger star.

GM GM 1  GMm 16 GMm   GMm 16 GMm 

v0
= = ….(i) ∴ mv 2min =  − − − − − 
r R+h 2  r1 r2   10 a − 2a 2a 

ve 2GM / R GM
Given, v=
0 = = …(ii) C1 P C2
2 2 2R 
v=0 vmin
From Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
h= R= 6400 km 1  48  GMm
Or mv 2min =  
2  8  a
(b) Decrease in potential energy=increase in kinetic
energy
3 5  GM 
1 2 ( ∆ U) ∴ v min =  
or mv 2 = ∆ U ∴ v = 2  a 
2 m

 mgh  Sol 8: Speed of particle at A, v A = escape velocity on

2 
 1+ h / R  the surface of earth
= = gR
m
2GM
3
=
(h = R) = 9.8 × 6400 × 10 = 7919 m / s = 7.9 km / s R
B vB=0

Sol 7: Let there are two stars 1 and 2 as shown below h

Let P is a point between C1 and C2 , where gravitational
field strength is zero or at P field strength due to star 1 R
A 100
is equal and opposite to the field strength due to star
2 Hence,

GM G (16M) r2
= or =4
r12 r22 r1

 4 
r1 + r2 =
10 a ∴ r2  =
=  (10 a) 8 a At highest point B, vB = 0
 4 +1
Applying conservation of mechanical energy, decrease
and r1 = 2 a in kinetic energy = increase in gravitational potential
energy
 P hysi cs | 10.67

1 Surface area of P= A= 4 πRP2

or mv 2A = UB − UA =m (vB − v A )
2
Surface area of Q= 4A= 4 πR 2Q
v2
or A= vB − v A
2 ⇒ RQ =
2RP
  2
4 3 4 3 4 3
GM GM  GM 1.5R 2 − 0.5  R − R   Mass R is MR = MP +MQ
∴ =− − − 4 3 4 3 4 3 ρ 3 πRR =ρ 3 πRP + ρ 3 πR Q
R R + h  R3   100   ρ πRR =ρ πRP + ρ πR Q
   4
3 4
3 4
3
ρ π3RR3 = 3
ρ π3RP3 + ρ3 πR3Q ⇒ RR3 = RP3 + R3Q = 9RP3
2 ⇒3RR = RP +3R Q = 9RP3
1 1 3  1  99  1 ⇒ R 3 3 3 3
1/3RP + R Q = 9RP
= R= 91/3 RP ⇒ RR > R Q > RP
or =
− + −    . R= 9 R ⇒ R > R > R
R
R
R R + h 2R  2   100  R R P R Q P
R=
R 91/3 RP ⇒ RR > R Q > RP
Therefore VR >VQ > VP
Solving this equation , we get
VR 1/3 V 1
= 9= and P
h = 99.5 R VP VQ 2

4  Sol 12: (B) Inside planet

G  π R3  ρ
Sol 9:=
GM
g = 3  or g ∝ ρ R r 4
2 2
g=
i gs = Gπrρ
R R R 3
g Force to keep the wire at rest (F)
or R ∝
ρ = Weight of wire

Now escape velocity, v e = 2gR or v e ∝ gR R 4  4   9λ  2

= ∫4R /5 (λdr)  3 Gπ=
rρ 

 Gπρ    R
3   50 
g g2 Me
or v e ∝ g × ∝ Here, ρ = density of earth =
ρ ρ 4 2
πR
6 3 3 e
)planet (11 km s−1 )
∴ (v e = × = 3 km s−1 R
121 2 Also, R = e ; putting all values, F = 108 N
10

Sol 10: (C) For r ≤ R Sol 13: (A) Measured value of r = (10 ± 1) mm
mv 2 GmM ∆r = 1 mm
= …… (i)
r r2  ∆r 1
Relative error
= = = 100%
r 10
4 
Here, M =  πr 3  ρ0 Average value of
 3  n=5
Substituting in Eq. (i), we get ∑ Ti (0.52 + 0.56 + 0.57 + 0.54 + 0.59)
i=l
v∝r =T = s
n 5
i.e., v-r graph is a straight line passing though origin
⇒T=
0.556s  0.56s
For r > R
4  0.01
Gm  πR 3  ρ0 Relative error in time period  = 1.79%
mv 2
3  1 0.56
= or v ∝
r r 2
r Reported value of (R - r) = (50 ± 2) mm
2
The corresponding v-r graph will be as shown in option (c) Relative error in (R - r) = =4%
50

4 7(R − r) ∆g  ∆T  ∆(R − r)
2.Gρ πR 3 T=
2π ⇒ 2
= +
2GM 3 4Gρ 5g g  T  (R − r)
Sol 11: (B, D)
= Ves = = R
R R 3 ∆g
Ves ∝ R ⇒ 7.57%
=
g