CHAPTER > 08

Gravitation
KEY NOTES

Å Each material object has a tendency to be attracted towards Å Law of Periods The square of the time period of revolution
the earth. This tendency of an object is governed by few of a planet is proportional to the cube of semi-major axis of
laws, namely Kepler’s laws and gravitational law. the ellipse traced out by the planet, i.e. T 2 ∝ a 3
where, a = semi-major axis and T = time period.
Kepler’s Laws of Planetary Motion
There are three scientific laws describing the motion of planets Universal Law of Gravitation
around the sun as given below Å It states that every body in the universe attract every other
Å Law of Orbits All planets move in elliptical orbit with sun body with a force which is directly proportional to the
situated at one of the foci of the ellipse. product of their masses and inversely proportional to the
Å Law of Areas The line that joins any planet to the sun square of the distance between them, i.e.
sweeps equal areas in equal intervals of time. The closest
m1 m2
point is called perihelion and the farthest point is called
r
aphelion. `

The law of areas can be understood as a consequence of

mm
conservation of angular momentum, which is valid for any F ∝ 12 2
central force. r
m1m2
Å A central force is such that the force on the planet is along
F =G 2
the vector joining the sun and the planet. r
Å The area ∆A swept out by the planet of mass m in time
mm
or F = − G 1 3 2 $r
interval ∆t is given by ||
r
1 where, G is the universal gravitational constant and its value
∆A = ( r × v∆t)
2 is 6.67 × 10−11 Nm 2 /kg 2 .
∆A 1 r × p L  p The gravitational force is attractive in nature, i.e. the force F is
Hence, = = Q v =  Å

∆t 2 m 2m  m along − r.
where, v is the velocity and L is the angular momentum Å Gravitational force is a central as well as conservative force
equal to ( r × p). but the weakest force in nature.
For a central force, which is directed along r, L is a constant Å The universal law of gravitation refers to the point masses
as the planet goes around. Hence, ∆A/ ∆t is a constant. whereas we deal with the extended objects which have finite
size.
 If we have collection of point masses, the force on any one Gravitational Potential Energy
of them is the vector sum of the gravitational forces
Å Gravitational potential energy of a body at a point is the
exerted by the other point masses as shown below
amount of work done in bringing a given body from
m2 infinity to a point against the gravitational force.
F12 Å If m and m are two masses separated by infinite distance,
1 2
then gravitational potential energy of the system when
they are brought to a separation of r is given by
r13=− r31 r12=− r21 Gm1m2
m3 U=−
F13 m1 r
where, the negative sign indicates that the two bodies are
r14=− r41
attracting each other.

m4
Escape Velocity
Å The minimum speed required for an object to reach
The total force on m1 is infinity (i.e. escape from the earth) is called escape
Gm2m1 Gm3m1 Gm4m1 velocity.
F1 = 2
$r21 +
2
r$31 + 2
r$41
r21 r31 r41 It is given by
Å The force of attraction between a hollow spherical shell of 2GME
Escape velocity (v e ) min = = 2gR E
uniform density and a point mass situated outside is just RE
as if the entire mass of the shell is concentrated at the
centre of the shell. Escape velocity at earth is 11.2 kms −1 and for the moon is
2.3 kms −1 , about five times smaller.
Å The force of attraction due to a hollow spherical shell of
uniform density, on a point mass situated inside it is zero. This is the reason that moon has no atmosphere.

Acceleration Due to Gravity Earth Satellites

Å The force of gravity acting on a body of unit mass placed Å Earth satellites are objects which revolve around the earth.
near the surface of earth is known as acceleration due to Their motion is very similar to the motion of planets
F GME around the sun and hence Kepler’s laws of planetary
gravity, which is denoted by g and given as g = = . motion are equally applicable to them.
m R E2
Å Moon is the only natural satellite of the earth moving in a
where, ME and R E are the mass and radius of the earth,
nearly circular orbit with a time period of approximately
respectively.
27.3 days which is also roughly equal to the rotational
Å The value of g at height h from earth’s surface is given by period of the moon about its own axis.
 2h  Orbital velocity of a satellite at a height h from surface of
g( h) ≈ g 1 − 
Å

 RE  GME
earth is given by v o = .
Therefore, g decreases with height. RE + h
Å The value of g at depth d from earth’s surface is given by When a satellite revolve near the earth’s surface, i.e. h = 0,
 d then its orbital velocity,
g( d) = g 1 − 
 RE  v o = gR E ≈ 7. 92 km /h
Therefore, g decreases with depth and becomes zero at Å Time period of a satellite,
earth’s centre. 2π( R E + h) 2π( R E + h) 3 / 2
T= =
vo GME
Gravitational Potential
Gravitational potential at a point in the gravitational field is When a satellite revolve near the earth’s surface, then
defined as the amount of work done in bringing a body of RE
unit mass from infinity to that point without acceleration. To = 2π ≈ 85 min
g
W
i.e. V=−
m Å Kinetic energy of the satellite in a circular orbit with
GmME
Its SI unit is Jkg −1 and dimensional formula is [M 0L2T −2]. speed v is KE = .
2( R E + h)

KEY NOTES
Å Potential energy at distance (R + h) from the centre of the  T 2GME 
1/3

GmME calculated from, R E + h =  

earth is PE = − .  4π 2 
( R E + h)
GmME GmME It (height h) comes out to be 35800 km, which is much larger
Å Total energy of a satellite = KE + PE = − than R E.
2( R E + h) ( R E + h)
Å Low altitude (h ≈ 500 to 800 km) satellites, which go around
GmME
=− . the poles of the earth in a north-south direction are called
2( R E + h) polar satellites, whereas the earth rotates around its axis in
Å The total energy of an circularly orbiting satellite is thus an east-west direction.
negative, with the potential energy being negative but twice
is magnitude of the positive kinetic energy. Weightlessness
Å When a satellite, which does not produce its own gravity
Geo-Stationary and Polar Satellites moves around the earth in a circular orbit under the action of
Å Satellites in a circular orbit around the earth in the gravity. The surface of satellite does not exert any force on
equilateral plane with T = 24 h are called geo-stationary the body, hence its apparent weight is zero.
satellites. Å In other words, when a body is in free fall, it is said to be
For T = 24 h, the height of satellite above earth’s surface is weightless, since there is no upward force on the body .

Mastering NCERT
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

TOPIC 1 ~ Early Finding and Kepler’s Laws

1 While going uphill more efforts are needed, it is due (a) t1 > t 2 (b) t1 < t 2
to the effect of (c) t1 = t 2 (d) t1 = t 2
(a) attractive force of earth (b) repulsive force of earth
(c) magnetic force of earth (d) None of these 4 The law of areas can be understood as a consequence
of
2 According to Kepler’s law of planetary motion, path (a) conservation of angular momentum
of planet around the sun is (b) conservation of energy
(a) circular (b) elliptical
(c) conservation of linear momentum
(c) parabolic (d) hyperbolic
(d) Both (a) and (b)
3 A planet moves around the sun on an elliptical path as 5 A central force is that force which acts along
shown in the figure. If t1 and t 2 are the time taken by (a) the vector perpendicular to sun
the planet to cover equal area SAB and SCD (b) the vector joining the sun and the planet
respectively, then (c) the vector tangential to the orbit
v (d) None of the above
B 6 The law of areas can be interpreted as
A ∆A L ∆A L
C (a) = (b) =
S ∆t 2m ∆t m
∆A ∆A 2L
(c) = 2 (r × p ) (d) =
D ∆t ∆t m
 7 Let a planet is moving around the sun in an elliptical (a) 4 × 103 km (b) 3 × 103 km
orbit as shown below. (c) ( 4 / 3 ) × 103 km (d) 1 × 103 km
v v 12 The kinetic energies of a planet in an elliptical orbit
P′
∆A about the sun, at positions A, B and C are K A , K B and
P (Planet) KC , respectively. AC is the major axis and SB is
r
S perpendicular to AC at the position of the sun S as
(Sun)
shown in the figure, then NEET 2018
B
The area swept out by the planet of mass m in time
interval ∆t is given by C
A
1 1 S
(a) ∆A = ( r × v ∆t ) (b) ∆A = (r × v)
2 2
1
(c) ∆A = ( r × p) (d) All of these (a) K B < K A < K C (b) K A > K B > K C
2 (c) K A < K B < K C (d) K B > K A > K C
8 In planetary motion, the areal velocity of position 13 The time period of revolution T of planet in years (yr)
vector of a planet depends on angular velocity ω and is 84. The semi-major axis a in units of 1010 m is 287.
the distance of the planet from sun r. So, the correct The quotient (T 2 / a 3 ) in units of 10 −34 yr 2 m −3 is
relation for areal velocity is approximately
dA dA dA dA
(a) ∝ ωr (b) ∝ ω 2 r (c) ∝ ωr2 (d) ∝ ωr (a) 3 units (b) 4 units (c) 2 units (d) 1 unit
dt dt dt dt
14 According to Kepler’s law of planetary motion, if T
9 Let the speed of the planet at the perihelion P in represents time period and r is orbital radius, then for
above figure be v P and the sun planet distance SP be two planets these are related as
rP . The corresponding quantity at the aphelion A is 3 2 3/ 2
( rA , v A ). The mass of the planet is m p . T  r T  r1
(a)  1  =  1  (b)  1  =
 T2   r2   T2  r2
B 2 3 2/ 3
T  r T   r 
(c)  1  =  1  (d)  1  =  1 
O 2b  T2   r2   T2   r2 
P S' A
S
15 Assuming that earth and mars move in circular orbits
C around the sun, with the martian orbit being 1.52
times the orbital radius of the earth. The length of the
The magnitude of the angular momentum at P is martian year in days is
mP rP mP vP
(a) LP = (b) LP = (a) (1.52)2 / 3 × 365 (b) (1.52)3 / 2 × 365
vP rP
(c) (1.52)2 × 365 (d) (1.52)3 × 365
(c) LP = mP rP vP (d) LP = mP vP
16 A planet of radius R has a time period of revolution T.
10 A planet is moving around the sun in an elliptical path Find the time period of a planet of radius 9R.
as shown in the figure. The linear speed of the planet JIPMER 2019
is minimum at (a) 3 3 T (b) 9T (c) 27T (d) 9 3T
Q 17 A geostationary satellite is orbiting the earth at a
height of 5R above the surface of the earth and R
being the radius of the earth. The time period of
R P another satellite in hour at a height of 2R from the
Sun surface of the earth is CBSE AIPMT 2012
S (a) 5 h (b) 10 h (c) 6 2 h (d) 6/ 2 h
18 Following table shows the data from measurement of
(a) P (b) S
planetary motions to confirm Kepler’s law of periods.
(c) Q (d) R
Planet a T Q
11 The maximum and minimum velocities of a planet are Mercury 5.79 0.24 2.95
3 × 10 4 ms −1 and 1 × 10 3 ms −1 , respectively. The Venus 10.8 0.615 A
minimum distance of the planet from the sun, if Earth 15.0 1.00 2.96
maximum distance is 4 × 10 4 km, is Mars 22.8 1.88 2.98
 Here, a = semi-major axis in units of 1010 m for the plane. Their periods of revolutions are 1 h and 8 h,
elliptical orbits, respectively and the radius of the orbit of A is 10 4 km.
T = time-period of revolution of the planet in years ( yr ) The speed of B relative toA (in km/h) when they are
and Q = the quotient (T 2 / a 3 ) in units of10 −34 y 2 m −3 ) close to each other, will be AIIMS 2018
(a) 3π × 104 (b) zero (c) 2π × 104 (d) π × 104
The missing term A in the given table is approximately
equal to 20 If the sun and the earth carried huge amounts of
(a) 3 units (b) 2 units opposite charges, then
(c) 2.5 units (d) 3.5 units (a) all three of Kepler’s laws would still be valid
(b) only the third law will be valid
19 Two satellites A and B revolve around the same
(c) the second law will change
planet in coplanar circular orbits lying in the same
(d) the first law will not be valid

TOPIC 2 ~ Newton’s Law of Gravitation

21 Newton’s law of gravitation is universal because GMm
force of attraction between them is F = , where
(a) it acts on all bodies in the universe r2
(b) it acts on all the masses at all distances and not affected G is gravitational constant.
by the medium
The relation between G and k is described as
(c) it is a attractive force CBSE AIPMT 2015
(d) it acts only when bodies are in contact
(a) k = 1/ G (b) Gk = 4 π 2
22 Newton arrived at an universal law based on his
(c) GMk = 4 π 2 (d) k = G
observation of an apple falling from a tree. Newton’s
reasoning was that the moon revolving in an orbit of 26 A planet is revolving around the sun in a circular orbit
radius R m was subjected to a centripetal acceleration with a radius r and the time period is T. If the force
due to earth’s gravity whose magnitude is given by between the planet and star is proportional to r −3/ 2 ,
v2 4 π 2 Rm then the square of time period is proportional to
(a) am = (b) am =
Rm T2 (a) r3 / 2 (b) r2 AIIMS 2018
mv 2 (c) r (d) r5 / 2
(c) am = (d) Both (a) and (b)
Rm 27 If the law of gravitation, instead of being inverse
square law, becomes an inverse cube law, then
23 On going from one planet to other planet, the value of (a) planets will have elliptical orbits
G (gravitational constant) (b) Kepler’s law of areas does not hold good
(a) increases (b) decreases (c) projectile motion of a stone thrown by hand on the
(c) remains same (d) None of these surface of the earth will be approximately parabolic
24 There have been suggestions that the value of the (d) there will be no gravitational force inside a spherical
gravitational constant G becomes smaller when shell of uniform density
considered over very large time period (in billions of 28 The height at which the weight of a body becomes
years) in the future. If that happens, for our earth, (1/16)th of its weight on the surface of the earth
(a) nothing will change (radius R), is CBSE AIPMT 2012
(b) it will become hotter after billions of years (a) 5R (b) 15 R (c) 3 R (d) 4 R
(c) it will be going around strictly in closed orbits
29 If mass of a planet is 2% of mass of earth. The ratio of
(d) after sufficiently long time it will leave the solar system
gravitational pull of earth on the planet and that of
25 Kepler’s third law states that square of period of planet on the earth will be
revolution T of a planet around the sun, is proportional (a) 1 : 20 (b) 2 : 5 (c) 1 : 1 (d) 1 : 50
to third power of average distance r between sun and
30 Two equal point masses are separated by a distance
planet i.e. T 2 = kr 3 , where k is constant. d1 . The force of gravitation acting between them is
If the masses of sun and planet are M and m, F1 . If the separation is decreased to d 2 , then the new
respectively, then as per Newton’s law of gravitation force of gravitation F2 is given by
 d 
2
35 A mass M is split into two parts, m and ( M − m),
(a) F2 = F1 (b) F2 = F1  1 
 d2  which are then separated by a certain distance. What
2 ratio of m / M maximizes the gravitational force
d  d 
(c) F2 = F1  2  (d) F2 = F1  1  between the two parts?
 d1   d2  (a) 1/3 (b) 1/2 (c) 1/4 (d) 1/5
31 Two sphere of masses m and M are situated in air and 36 Two spherical bodies of masses m and 5 m and radii R
the gravitational force between them is F . The space and 2R are released in free space with initial
around the masses is now filled with a liquid of separation between their centres equal to 12R. If they
specific gravity 3. The gravitational force will now be attract each other due to gravitational force only, then
F F the distance covered by the smaller body before
(a) F (b) (c) (d) 3 F
3 9 collision is CBSE AIPMT 2015
32 Three equal masses of m kg each are fixed at the (a) 2.5 R (b) 4.5 R
vertices of an equilateral triangle ABC and a mass 2m (c) 7.5 R (d) 1.5 R
is placed at centroid G of the triangle as shown below. 37 A point mass m is placed outside a m

A
hollow spherical shell of mass M and d P
m uniform density at a distance d from
centre of the sphere as shown in figure. M
2m
Gravitational force on point mass m at
G P is
GmM
(a) (b) zero
B C d2
m m
(AG=BG=CG= 1m) 2 GmM
(c) (d) Data insufficient
d2
The force acting on a mass 2m placed at the centroid 38 The force of attraction due to a hollow spherical shell
G of the triangle is of mass M, radius R and uniform density, on a point
2 Gm2 2 2 mass m situated inside it is
(a) (b) 2Gm (c) 6Gm (d) zero
2
P
33 Three uniform spheres of mass M and radius R each (m)
r
are kept in such a way that each touches the other M
two. The magnitude of the gravitational force on any
of the spheres due to the other two is R
3 GM 2 3 GM 2 3 GM 2 3 GM 2 GmM Gm M
(a) 2
(b) (c) (d) (a) (b)
4 R 2 R2 R2 2 R2 r2 R2
34 A point mass m is placed at the centre of the square (c) zero (d) Data insufficient
ABCD of side a units as shown below. 39 The figure shown is the
a schematic representation of S1′ S2
A B
m1 m2 Cavendish’s experiment to
determine the value of the A B
m gravitational constant. The bar
AB has two small lead spheres S1 S2′
attached at its ends. The bar is
D C suspended from a rigid support by a fine wire. Two
m2 m1 large lead spheres are brought close to the small ones
The resultant gravitational force on mass m due to but on opposite sides as shown.
masses m1 and m2 placed on the vertices of square is The big spheres attract the near by small ones by a
Gm1 m2 2Gm ( m1 + m2 ) force which is
(a) (b)
(a 2 ) 2
a2 (a) equal and opposite
Gm ( m1 + m2 ) (b) equal but in same direction
(c) zero (d) (c) unequal and opposite
( a 2 )2
(d) None of the above
CHAPTER 08 > Gravitation

TOPIC 3 ~ Acceleration due to Gravity and its Variation

40 If g is the acceleration due to gravity at the surface of Which curve best represents the weight (net
the earth. The force acting on the particle of mass m gravitational force) of the passenger as a function of
placed at the surface is time?
Weight
(a) mg
GmM E
(b)
RE2 600 N
A
(c) Data insufficient
(d) Both (a) and (b) 240 N B
41 The weight of a body at the centre of earth is C
(a) same as on the surface of earth
D t0 Time
(b) same as on the poles
(c) same as on the equator
(a) A (b) B (c) C (d) D
(d) None of the above
46 If the mass of the sun is ten times smaller and
42 According to Newton’s law of gravitation, let F1 gravitational constant G is ten times larger in
and F2 be the forces between two masses m1 and m2 magnitude. Then, for earth,
at positions r1 and r2 , where (a) walking on ground would become more easy
n
r12 
2 m1 m2
 (b) acceleration due to gravity on the earth will not change
F1 = − F2 = − 3 GM 0   (c) raindrops will fall much slower
r12  M 02  (d) airplanes will have to travel much faster
where, M 0 is a constant of dimension of mass, 47 If one assumes that the gravitational force due to the
r12 = r1 − r2 and n is a number. In such a case, earth decreases in proportion to the inverse square of
(a) the acceleration due to gravity on the earth will be the distance from the centre of the earth, then which
different for different objects of the following relation between a m (centripetal
(b) None of the three laws of Kepler will be valid acceleration of moon), R m (distance of
(c) only the third law will be valid the moon from centre of the earth), g (acceleration
(d) None of the above due to gravity on the surface of the earth) and R E
43 If the mass of the earth is doubled and its radius (radius of earth) is correct?
2
halved, then new acceleration due to the gravity g ′ is g R g R 
(a) = m (b) =  m
(a) g ′ = 4 g (b) g ′ = 8 g am RE am  RE 
(c) g ′ = g (d) g ′ = 16 g
g R −2
(c) = E−2 (d) Both (b) and (c)
44 A planet has twice the density of earth but the am R m
acceleration due to gravity on its surface is exactly
the same as on the surface of earth. Its radius in terms 48 The time period of the moon is T = 27.3 days and
of radius of earth R will be radius of orbit is R m = 3.84 × 10 8 m, the value of
(a) R / 4 (b) R / 2 centripetal acceleration due to the earth’s gravity is
(c) R / 3 (d) R / 8 (a) much smaller than the value of acceleration due to
45 Suppose, the acceleration due to gravity at the earth’s gravity g on the surface of the earth
(b) is equal to the value of acceleration due to gravity g on
surface is 10 ms −2 and at the surface of mars it is
the surface of the earth
4.0 ms −2 . A 60 kg passenger goes from the earth to the (c) much larger than the value of acceleration due to
mars in a spaceship moving with a constant velocity. gravity g on the surface of the earth
Neglect all other objects in the sky. (d) Either (a) or (b)
49 The value of acceleration due to gravity at earth’s 55 Consider two solid spheres of radii R1 = 1 m, R 2 = 2 m
surface is 9.8 ms −2 . The altitude above its surface at and masses M 1 and M 2 , respectively. The
which the acceleration due to gravity decreases to gravitational field due to sphere 1 and 2 are shown.
4.9 ms −2 , is close to (Take, radius of earth M1
The value of is
= 6.4 × 10 6 m ) JEE Main 2019 M2 JEE Main 2020
(a) 9.0 × 106 m (b) 2.6 × 106 m
(c) 6.4 × 106 m . × 106 m 4

Gravitational field (E)

(d) 16
50 A body weigh’s w N at the surface of the earth. Its 3
weight at a height equals to half the radius of the 2
2
earth will be 1
w 2w 4w 8w
(a) (b) (c) (d) 1
2 3 9 27
51 At what height h above the surface of the earth, the value 0 1 2 3 4 5
g Radius (R)
of g becomes   ? (Take, g = acceleration due to
2 1 1
(a) (b)
gravity at the surface of the earth and R = radius of the 3 2
earth) 1 2
(c) (d)
(a) 3 R (b) 2R 6 3
1
(c) ( 2 − 1) R (d) R 56 Find acceleration due to gravity at a distance of
2 2000 km from the centre of earth.
52 The radius of earth is R. Height of a point vertically (Given, R E = 6400 km, r = 2000 km and
above the earth’s surface at which acceleration M E = 6 × 10 24 kg) AIIMS 2019
due to gravity becomes 1% of its value at the surface (a) 1.53 m/s 2 (b) 7.12 m/s 2
is (c) 3.06 m/s 2 (d) 1.8 m/s 2
(a) 8 R (b) 9 R (c) 10 R (d) 20 R
57 A body weighs 200 N on the surface of the earth.
53 The weight of a body on the surface of the earth is How much will it weigh half-way down to the centre
45 N. What is the gravitational force on it due to the of the earth ? NEET 2019
earth at a height equal to half the radius of the earth? (a) 200 N (b) 250 N
AIIMS 2018 (c) 100 N (d) 150 N
(a) 35 N (b) 20 N (c) 18 N (d) 40 N
58 A box weighs 196 N on a spring balance at the
54 Assuming the earth to have a constant density, point north pole. Its weight recorded on the same balance,
out which of the following curves show the variation if it is shifted to the equator is close to (Take,
of acceleration due to gravity from the centre of earth
g =10 ms −2 at the north pole and the radius of the
to the points far away from the surface of earth.
NEET 2016, JEE Main 2017 earth = 6400 km) JEE Main 2020
g g (a) 195.66 N (b) 195.32 N
(c) 194.66 N (d) 194.32 N
(a) (b) 59 The acceleration due to gravity at a height 1 km
above the earth is the same as at a depth d below the
R r
surface of earth. Then , NEET 2017
R r 1
g (a) d = km (b) d = 1km
2
(c) (d) None of these 3
(c) d = km (d) d = 2 km
2

R r
CHAPTER 08 > Gravitation

TOPIC 4 ~ Gravitational Potential and Gravitational

Potential Energy
60 The gravitational potential energy of a system system is −7.79 × 10 28 J. The mean distance between
consisting two particles separated by a distance r is . × 10 −11 Nm 2 kg −2 )
the earth and moon is (G = 667
(a) directly proportional to product of the masses of particles
(a) 3.8 × 108 m (b) 3.37 × 106 m
(b) inversely proportional to the separation between them
(c) 7.60 × 104 m . × 102 m
(d) 19
(c) independent of distance r
(d) Both (a) and (b) 64 The work done to raise a mass m from the surface of
the earth to a height h, which is equal to the radius of
61 Gravitational potential energy m1
the earth, is NEET 2019
of a system of particles as 1 3
shown in the figure is r1 r3 (a) 2mgR (b) mgR (c) mgR (d) mgR
2 2
Gm1 m2 Gm2 m3 Gm1 m3 65 The gravitational potential at a distance r from the
(a) + +
r1 r3 r3 m2 r2 m3 centre of the earth ( r > R ) is given by (consider, mass
 − Gm1 m2   − Gm2 m3   − Gm1 m3  of the earth = M E and radius of the earth = R )
(b)   +  +  − GM E GM E − GM E + GM E
 r1   r2   r3  (a) (b) (c) (d)
R R r r
− Gm1 m2 Gm2 m3 Gm1 m3
(c) − + 66 At what height from the surface of earth, the
r1 r2 r3
Gm1 m2 Gm2 m3 Gm1 m3 gravitation potential and the value of g are
(d)
r1
+
r2
−
r3
−5.4 × 10 7 J kg −2 and 6.0 ms −2 , respectively?
[Take, radius of earth is 6400 km]. NEET 2016
62 Two point masses m1 and m2 are separated by a (a) 1600 km (b)1400 km
distance r. The gravitational potential energy of the (c) 2000 km (d) 2600 km
system is G1 . When the separation between the 67 Three particles each of mass m are kept at vertices of
particles is doubled, the gravitational potential energy an equilateral triangle of side L. The gravitational
G potential at the centre due to these particles is
is G2 . Then, the ratio of 1 is
G2 3Gm − 9 Gm
(a) − (b)
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 4 L 3L
63 The mass of the earth is 6 × 10 24
kg and that of the (c) −
3 3 Gm
(d) Both (b) and (c)
moon is 7.4 × 10 22
kg. The potential energy of the L

TOPIC 5 ~ Escape Velocity and Satellites

68 Gas escapes from the surface of a planet because it (a) 2g ′ Rm , where g ′ = acceleration due to gravity on the
acquires an escape velocity. The escape velocity will moon and Rm = radius of the moon
depend on which of the following factors?
(b) 2g ′ RE , where g ′ = acceleration due to gravity on the
(a) Mass of the planet
(b) Mass of the particle escaping moon and RE = radius of the earth
(c) Temperature of the planet (c) 2gRm , where g = acceleration due to gravity on the
(d) None of the above
earth and Rm = radius of the moon
69 Escape velocity of a body on the surface of earth is
(d) None of the above
independent of
(a) mass 71 The escape velocity of a body from the earth is v e . If
(b) radius of earth the radius of earth contracts to (1 /4)th of its value,
(c) direction of projection of body keeping the mass of the earth constant, escape
(d) Both (a) and (c) velocity will be
70 An object is thrown from the surface of the moon. (a) doubled (b) halved
The escape speed for the object is (c) tripled (d) unaltered
72 A black hole is an object whose gravitational field is (a) 2.46 km/h (b) 3.46 km/h
so strong that even light cannot escape from it. To (c) 4.4 km/h (d) None of these
what approximate radius would earth (mass 77 The ratio of escape velocity at earth ( v e ) to the escape
= 5.98 × 10 24 kg) have to be compressed to be a black velocity at a planet (v p ) whose radius and mean
hole? CBSE AIPMT 2013 density are twice as that of earth is NEET 2016
(a) 10− 2 m (b) 100 m (a) 1 : 2 2 (b) 1: 4
(c) 10− 9 m (d) 10− 6 m (c) 1 : 2 (d) 1: 2
73 An asteroid of mass m is approaching earth, initially 78 The orbital angular momentum of a satellite revolving
at a distance 10 R E with speed v i . It hits earth with a at a distance r from the centre is L. If the distance is
speed v f ( R E and M E are radius and mass of earth), increased to 16r, then the new angular momentum will
then be
2Gm  1 (a) 16 L (b) 64 L
(a) v2f = vi2 + 1 + 
RE  10 (c)
L
(d) 4 L
2GM E  1 4
(b) v2f = vi2 + 1 + 
RE  10 79 Two satellites A and B have masses m and 2m
2GM E  1 respectively. A is in a circular orbit of radius R and B
(c) v2f = vi2 + 1 −  is in a circular orbit of radius 2R around the earth.
RE  10
The ratio of their kinetic energies, T A / TB is
2Gm  1 JEE Main 2019
(d) v2f = vi2 + 1 − 
RE  10 1 1
(a) (b) 2 (c) (d) 1
74 A satellite S is moving in an elliptical orbit around 2 2
the earth. The mass of the satellite is very small as 80 The kinetic energy of the satellite in a circular orbit
compared to the mass of the earth. Then, with speed v is given as
CBSE AIPMT 2015 − GmM E GmM E
(a) the angular momentum of S about the centre of the earth (a) KE = (b) KE =
2( RE + h ) ( RE + h )
changes in direction, but its magnitude remains constant
GmM E 1
(b) the total mechanical energy of S varies periodically (c) KE = (d) KE = − mv2
with time 2 ( RE + h ) 2
(c) the linear momentum of S remains constant in magnitude 81 The radius of the orbit of a satellite is r and its kinetic
(d) the acceleration of S is always directed towards the energy is K. If the radius of the orbit is doubled, then
centre of the earth the new kinetic energy K ′ is
75 Two stars of masses 3 × 10 31 kg each and at distance (a) 2 K (b)
K
2 × 10 m rotate in a plane about their common centre
11 2
(c) 4 K (d) Data insufficient
of mass O. A meteorite passes through O moving
perpendicular to the star’s rotation plane. In order to 82 If the gravitational potential energy at infinity is
escape from the gravitational field of this double star, assumed to be zero, the potential energy at distance
the minimum speed that meteorite should have at O is ( R E + h) from the centre of the earth is
(Take, gravitational constant, GmM E − GmM E
(a) PE = (b) PE =
. × 10 −11 N-m 2 kg −2 )
G = 667 ( RE + h ) ( RE + h )
JEE Main 2019
(a) 2. 8 × 105 m/s (b) 3.8 × 104 m/s − GmM E
(c) PE = mgh (d) PE =
2( RE + h )
(c) 2. 4 × 104 m/s (d) 1. 4 × 105 m/s
83 The potential energy of a satellite is given as
76 If escape velocity on earth’s surface is 11.1 km/h,
then find the escape velocity on moon’s surface. If PE = λ (KE)
1 where, PE = potential energy of the satellite
mass of the moon is   times of the mass of earth and KE = kinetic energy of the satellite.
 81
 1 The value of the constant λ is
and radius of the moon is   times radius of the (a) − 2
 4 (b) 2
(c) − 1 / 2 (d) + 1/ 2
earth. JIPMER 2019
CHAPTER 08 > Gravitation 209

84 A satellite is revolving in a circular orbit at a height h 86 A satellite of mass M is in a circular orbit of radius R
from the earth surface such that h << R , where R is about the centre of the earth. A meteorite of the same
the radius of the earth. Assuming that the effect of mass falling towards the earth collides with the
earth’s atmosphere can be neglected the minimum satellite completely inelastically. The speeds of the
increase in the speed required so that the satellite satellite and the meteorite are the same just before the
could escape from the gravitational field of earth is collision. The subsequent motion of the combined
JEE Main 2019
body will be JEE Main 2019
gR
(a) (b) gR (c) 2gR (d) gR ( 2 − 1) (a) in the same circular orbit of radius R
2 (b) in an elliptical orbit
85 The time period of geo-stationary satellite is (c) such that it escapes to infinity
(a) 6 h (b) 12 h (c) 24 h (d) 48 h (d) in a circular orbit of a different radius

SPECIAL TYPES QUESTIONS

I. Assertion and Reason 90 Assertion As we go up the surface of the earth, we
■ Direction (Q. Nos. 87-98) In the following questions, a feel light weighed than on the surface of the earth.
statement of Assertion is followed by a corresponding Reason The acceleration due to gravity decreases on
statement of Reason. Of the following statements, choose going up above the surface of the earth.
the correct one? 91 Assertion The escape speed for the moon is
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason 2.3 kms −1 which is five times smaller than that for
is the correct explanation of Assertion.
the earth.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are correct but Reason
is not the correct explanation of Assertion. Reason The escape speed depends on acceleration
(c) Assertion is correct but Reason is incorrect. due to gravity on the moon and radius of the moon
(d) Assertion is incorrect but Reason is correct. and both of them are smaller than that of earth.
92 Assertion Moon has no atmosphere.
87 Assertion The force of attraction between a hollow
spherical shell of uniform density and a point mass Reason The escape speed for the moon is much
situated outside is just as if the entire mass of the smaller.
shell is concentrated at the centre of the shell. 93 Assertion The escape velocity for a planet is
Reason Gravitational force caused by various v e = 2gR . If the radius of the planet is doubled, the
regions of the shell have components along the line escape velocity becomes twice (i.e. v e ′ = 2 v e )
joining the point mass to the centre as well as along a Reason In the relation for escape velocity,
direction perpendicular to this line. v e = 2gR , the acceleration due to gravity g is
88 Assertion The force of attraction due to a hollow inversely proportional to radius of the planet.
spherical shell of uniform density, on a point mass 1
situated inside it is zero. Thus, v e ∝ .
Reason Various region of the spherical shell attract R
the point mass inside it in various directions. These 94 Assertion The velocity of the satellite decreases as
forces cancel each other completely. its height above earth’s surface increases and is
89 Assertion The measurement of G by Cavendish’s maximum near the surface of the earth.
experiment, combined with the knowledge of g and Reason The velocity of the satellite is inversely
R E enables one to estimates M E . proportional to square root of its height above earth’s
Reason By Newton’s second law, the value of g is surface.
GM E 95 Assertion The total energy of the satellite is
given by the relation, g = . always negative irrespective of the nature of its orbit, i.e.
R E2
elliptical or circular and it cannot be positive or zero.
 Reason If the total energy is positive or zero, the 102 According to Newton’s law of gravitation, the
satellite would leave its orbit. magnitude of the force F on point masses m1 and m2
96 Assertion The geo-stationary satellite goes around the Gm1 m2
(say) is given by | F | = .
earth in west-east direction. r2
Reason Geo-stationary satellites orbits around the I. This equation is not directly applicable for the
earth in the equatorial plane with T = 24 h same as that gravitational force between extended object (like the
of the rotation of the earth around its axis. earth) and a point mass.
II. This equation can be directly applied for
97 Assertion In the satellite, everything inside it is in a gravitational force between an extended object and a
state of free fall. point mass.
Reason Every part and parcel of the satellite has zero III. The equations can be applied to find the gravitational
acceleration. force between an extended object and a point mass
provided r is the distance of the point mass from the
98 Assertion An object is weightless when it is in free geometric centre of the extended object.
fall and this phenomenon is called weightlessness. IV. None of the above
Reason In free fall, there is no upward force acting on Which of the following statement(s) about this
the object. equation is/are correct?
(a) Only I (b) Both I and II
II. Statement Based Questions (c) Both II and IV (d) Both II and III
99 The scheme of motion put forward by Ptolemy in 103 I. The centripetal force is directed towards the centre of
order to describe the observed motion of the planets is the earth.
that II. The centripetal force is provided by the gravitational
I. the planets are moving in circles with the centre of the force.
circles themselves moving in larger circles. III. The magnitude of the gravitational force acting on
II. the planets are moving in circles with the centre of the satellite is
circles themselves remaining stationary. GmM e
Fgravitational = , where M e is the mass of
III. the planets are moving in an elliptical orbit with the (R e + h )2
centre of the ellipse moving in a circle. the earth and it is same as centripetal force.
Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? Which of the given statements is correct for the
(a) Only I (b) Only II centripetal force required by the satellite to remain
(c) Only III (d) None of these in orbit?
100 I. All celestial objects, stars, the sun and the planets, (a) Only I (b) Only II
revolve around the earth. (c) Both I and II (d) I, II and III
II. The only motion that was thought to be possible for 104 The orbit of a geo-stationary satellite is circular. The
celestial objects was motion in a circle. time period of satellite depends on
III. The star, the earth and the planets, all revolve around the I. mass of the satellite. II. mass of the earth.
sun. III. radius of the orbit.
Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct for a IV. height of the satellite from the surface of the earth.
geocentric model? Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
(a) Only I (b) Only II (a) Only I (b) Both I and II
(c) Only III (d) Both I and II (c) I, II and III (d) II, III and IV
101 I. The planets revolve around the sun as its centre. 105 I. A strip on earth’s surface is visible from satellite in
II. The planets revolves around the earth and earth revolve one cycle.
around the sun as its centre. II. The whole earth can be viewed strip by strip during
III. The sun revolves around the earth as its centre. the entire day from the polar satellite.
IV. The planets revolve around the sun in elliptical orbit. III. These satellites can view polar and equatorial regions
With reference to the ‘heliocentric model’ of planetary at close distances with good resolution.
motions, which of the given statement(s) is/are correct? Which of the given statements is correct about the
(a) Only I (b) Only II
polar satellites?
(c) Only III (d) Only IV (a) Only I (b) Both I and II
(c) Both II and III (d) I, II and III
106 If the mass of the sun were ten times smaller and (c) Escape velocity will remain unchanged.
the universal gravitational constant were ten (d) Potential energy will remain unchanged.
times larger in magnitude, which one of the 110 Which one of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
following statement is incorrect? NEET 2018 (a) A polar satellite goes around the earth’s pole in north-south
(a) Time period of a simple pendulum on the earth direction.
would decrease. (b) A geo-stationary satellite goes around the earth in east-west
(b) Walking on the ground would become more direction.
difficult. (c) A geostationary satellite goes around the earth in north-south
(c) Raindrops will fall faster. direction.
(d) g on the earth will not change. (d) A polar satellite goes around the earth in east-west direction.
107 A solid sphere of uniform density and radius 111 Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct about
4 units is located with its centre at the origin O satellites?
of coordinates. Two spheres of equal radii 1 unit (a) A satellite cannot move in a stable orbit in a plane passing
with their centres at A( − 2, 0, 0) and B (2, 0, 0) through the earth’s centre.
respectively are taken out of the solid leaving (b) Geo-stationary satellites are launched in the equatorial plane.
behind spherical cavities as shown in figure.
(c) We can use just one geostationary satellite for global
y
communication around the globe.
(d) The speed of satellite increases with an increase in the radius
of its orbit.
112 Which one of the following statement(s) is/are
x
O correct?
(a) The energy required to rocket an orbiting satellite out of
earth’s gravitational influence is more than the energy
z required to project a stationary object at the same height (as
Which one of the following statement with the satellite) out of earth’s influence.
respect to the given situation is incorrect? (b) If the potential energy is zero at infinity, the total energy of
an orbiting satellite is negative of potential energy.
(a) The gravitational force due to this object at the
(c) The first artificial satellite sputnik I was launched in the year
origin is zero.
2001.
(b) The gravitational force at the point B( 2, 0, 0 ) is
(d) The time period of rotation of the SYNCOMS (Synchronous
zero.
communications satellite) is 24 h.
(c) The gravitational potential is the same at all points
of the circle y2 + z 2 = 36.
(d) The gravitational potential is the same at all points
III. Matching Type
on the circle y2 + z 2 = 4. 113 Two uniform solid spheres of equal radii R but mass M
and 4M have a centre-to-centre separation 6R as shown in
108 Which of the following statement(s) is/are figure. The two spheres are held fixed. A projectile of
incorrect? mass m is projected from the surface of the sphere of mass
(a) Acceleration due to gravity decreases with altitude. M directly towards the centre of the second sphere. N is
(b) Acceleration due to gravity increases with the point where net gravitational is zero.
increasing depth (assume the earth to be a sphere
of uniform density).
(c) Acceleration due to gravity increases with m v
R N R
latitude. M
4M
(d) Acceleration due to gravity is independent of the O C
mass of the object.
r
109 The radius and mass of earth are increased by 6R
0.5%. Which one of the following statement is
incorrect at the surface of the earth? With reference to the above situation, match the Column I
(a) g will increase. (quantities) with Column II (mathematical expressions)
(b) g will decrease. and select the correct answer from the codes given below.
 Column I Column II Column I Column II
A. Distance r of neutral point N 1. A. Energy required to transfer it to a 1. − 6.26 × 109 J
3 GM circular orbit of radius 4Re .
5R
B. Change in KE, ∆K 2. 3.13 × 109 J
B. Minimum speed of the projectile, 2. 2R (KE → Kinetic Energy)
vmin , so that it reaches the surface of
C. Change in potential energy, ∆PE 3. − 3.13 × 109 J
the second sphere.
C. The speed with which the projectile 3. 27GM A B C A B C
hits the seconds sphere, if projected 5R (a) 2 3 1 (b) 1 2 3
with vmin .
(c) 3 2 1 (d) 2 1 3
A B C A B C 116 A satellite of mass m revolving with a velocity v
(a) 1 2 3 (b) 3 2 1 around the earth. With reference to the above
(c) 2 1 3 (d) 3 1 2 situation, match the Column I (types of energy) with
114 Two satellites S 1 and S 2 revolve around a planet in Column II (expression) and select the correct answer
coplanar circular orbits in the same sense. Their from the codes given below.
periods of revolutions are 1 h and 8 h, respectively. Column I Column II
The radius of the orbit of S 1 is 10 4 km. With A. Kinetic energy of the satellite 1. 1
− mv2
reference to the above situation, match the Column I 2
(quantities) with Column II (approximate values) and B. Potential energy of the satellite 2. 1
mv2
select the correct answer from the codes given below. 2
C. Total energy of the satellite 3. − mv2
Column I Column II
A. Speed of S 2 in kmh −1 1. π/3 A B C A B C
(a) 1 2 3 (b) 2 3 1
B. Speed of S 1 in kmh −1 2. 2 π × 104
(c) 3 2 1 (d) 3 1 2
C. Velocity of S 2 relative to S 1 3. π × 104 117 Match the Column I (quantities) with Column II
when S 2 is closest to S 1 in
kmh −1
(approximate values/direction) and select the correct
answer from the codes given below.
D. Angular speed of S 2 as 4. − π × 104
observed by an astronaut in Column I Column II
S 1 when S 2 is closest to S 1
A. Direction of motion of polar 1. 35800 km
in radh −1
satellite
A B C D B. Direction of motion of 2. West-East
(a) 3 2 4 1 geo-stationary satellite
(b) 2 3 4 1 C. Height above the surface of the 3. 512 km
(c) 2 3 1 4 earth for polar satellite
(d) 4 2 1 3 D. Height above the surface of the 4. North-South
earth for geostationary satellite
115 A 400 kg satellite is in a circular orbit of radius 2 R e
about the earth, where R e = radius of the earth. With A B C D
(a) 2 4 1 3
reference to the above situation, match the Column I
(b) 4 2 1 3
(quantities) with Column II (calculated values) and
(c) 4 2 3 1
select the correct answer from the codes given below.
(d) 2 4 3 1
CHAPTER 08 > Gravitation

NCERT & NCERT Exemplar

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS
NCERT (a) 31.7 kms −1 (b) 31.7 kmh −1
118 If one of the satellites of jupiter has an orbital period of (c) 108.7 kmskms −1 (d) 270.6 kms −1
. × 10 m.
1.769 days and the radius of the orbit is 422 8
125 A satellite orbits the earth at a height of 400 km
The mass of Jupiter as compared to that of sun will be above the surface. How much energy must be
1 1 expanded to rocket the satellite out of the earth’s
(a) M J = MS (b) M J = MS
1000 105 gravitational influence? Mass of the satellite = 200 kg,
1
(c) M J = 8 M S (d) M J =
1
MS mass of the earth = 6.0 × 10 24 kg, radius of the earth
10 106 . × 10 −11 N-m 2 / kg 2 .
= 6.4 × 10 6 m and G = 667
119 If zero of potential energy is at ∞, then total energy of (a) 7 × 106 J (b) 8.5 × 109 J
satellite is equals to (c) 10 × 109 J (d) 5.9 × 109 J
(a) − 2 K (b) − 3 K
(c) − (1/ 2 ) K (d) − K 126 A spaceship is stationed on mars. How much energy
120 A rocket is fired from the earth towards the sun. At must be expanded on the spaceship to rocket it out of
what distance from the earth’s centre is the the solar system? Mass of the spaceship =1000 kg,
gravitational force on the rocket is zero? Mass of the mass of sun = 2 × 10 30 kg, mass of mars = 6.4 × 10 23 kg,
sun = 2 × 10 30 kg, mass of the earth = 60
. × 10 24 kg and radius of mars = 3395 km, radius of orbit of mars
orbital radius = 15
. × 1011 m. Neglect the effect of the . × 10 8 km and G = 667
= 228 . × 10 −11 N-m 2 / kg 2 .
other planets etc. . × 1011 J
(a) 31 (b) 6.7 × 1011 J
(a) 7.30 × 107 m (b) 2.6 × 108 m (c) 3.1 × 10−11 J (d) 6.7 × 10−11 J
(c) 5.30 × 108 m (d) 1.7 × 108 m 127 A rocket is fired vertically from the surface of mars
121 A saturn year is 29.5 times the earth year. How far is with a speed of 2 kms −1 . If 20% of its initial energy is
the saturn from the sun, if the earth is 1.5 ×10 8 km lost due to martian atmospheric resistance, how far
will the rocket go from the surface of mars before
away from sun?
returning to it? Mass of mars = 6.4 × 10 23 kg, radius of
(a) 1.4 × 106 km (b) 1.4 × 107 km
(c) 1.4 × 108 km (d) 1.4 × 109 km mars = 3395 km and G = 667 . × 10 −11 N-m 2 kg −2 .
(a) 685 km (b) 785 km
122 Weight of a body on surface of earth = 63 N. When (c) 495 km (d) 500 km
this object is taken below earth surface at a height
equals to half the radius, its weight becomes
(a) 28 N (b) 10 N
NCERT Exemplar
(c) 0 (d) 63 N 128 The earth is an approximate sphere. If the interior
−1 contained matter which is not of the same density
123 A rocket is fired vertically with a speed of 5 kms
from the earth’s surface. How far from the earth does everywhere, then on the surface of the earth, the
the rocket go before returning to the earth? acceleration due to gravity
(a) will be directed towards the centre but not the same
Mass of the earth = 60
. × 10 24 kg, mean radius of earth everywhere
6
. × 10 −11 N-m 2 / kg 2 .
= 6.4 × 10 m and G = 667 (b) will have the same value everywhere but not directed
(a) 1600 × 106 km (b) 6.4 × 106 m towards the centre
(c) will be same everywhere in magnitude directed towards
(c) 8 × 106 m (d) 9 × 107 m the centre
124 The escape velocity of a projectile on earth’s surface (d) Cannot be zero at any point
is 11.2 kms −1 . A body is projected out with thrice this 129 As observed from the earth, the sun appears to move
speed. What is the speed of the body far away from in an approximate circular orbit. For the motion of
the earth? Ignore the presence of sun and other another planet like mercury as observed from the
planets. earth, this would
 (a) be similarly true (b) will move in an irregular way because of their small
(b) not be true because the force between the earth and masses and will drift away into outer space
mercury is not inverse square law (c) will move around the sun in closed orbits but not obey
(c) not be true because the major gravitational force on Kepler’s laws
mercury is due to the sun (d) will move in orbits like planets and obey Kepler’s laws
(d) not be true because mercury is influenced by forces 134 Choose the incorrect option.
other than gravitational forces (a) Inertial mass is a measure of difficulty of accelerating a
130 Different points in the earth are at slightly different body by an external force whereas the gravitational
distances from the sun and hence experience different mass is relevant in determining the gravitational force
forces due to gravitation. For a rigid body, we know on it by an external mass.
that if various forces act at various points in it, the (b) The gravitational mass and inertial mass are equal is an
resultant motion is as if a net force acts on the CM experimental result.
(centre of mass) causing translation and a net torque (c) The acceleration due to gravity on the earth is same for
at the CM causing rotation around an axis through the all bodies is due to the equality of gravitational mass
and inertial mass.
CM. For the earth-sun system (approximating the
(d) Gravitational mass of a particle like proton can depend
earth as a uniform density sphere),
on the presence of neighbouring heavy objects but the
(a) the torque is zero
inertial mass cannot.
(b) the torque causes the earth to spin
(c) the rigid body result is not applicable since the earth is 135 Particles of masses 2M, m and M are respectively at
not even approximately a rigid body points A, B and C with AB =1/ 2( BC ). m is much-much
(d) the torque causes the earth to move around the sun smaller than M and at time t = 0, they are all at rest as
given in figure. At subsequent times before any
131 Satellites orbiting earth have finite life and sometimes
collision takes place,
debris of satellites fall to the earth. This is because
broken part of satellite A B C
(a) solar cells and batteries in satellites run out 2M m M
(b) laws of gravitation predict a trajectory spiralling inwards
(c) of viscous forces causing the speed of satellite and (a) m will remain at rest
hence height to gradually decrease (b) m will move towards M
(d) of collisions with other satellites (c) m will move towards 2M
132 Both the earth and the moon are subject to the (d) m will have oscillatory motion
gravitational force of the sun. As observed from the 136 The centre of mass of an extended body on the
sun, the orbit of the moon surface of the earth and its centre of gravity
(a) will be elliptical (a) are always at the same point for any size of the body
(b) will not be strictly elliptical because the total (b) are always at the same point only for spherical bodies
gravitational force on it is not central
(c) can never be at the same point
(c) is not elliptical but will necessarily be a closed curve
(d) is close to each other for objects, say of sizes less than
(d) deviates considerably from being elliptical due to 100 m
influence of planets other than the earth
137 The eccentricity of earth’s orbit is 0.0167. The ratio
133 In our solar system, the inter-planetary region has
of its maximum speed in its orbit to its minimum
chunks of matter (much smaller in size compared to speed.
planets) called asteroids. They (a) 2.507 (b) 1.033
(a) will not move around the sun, since they have very (c) 8.324 (d) 1.000
small masses compared to the sun
 Answers
> Mastering NCERT with MCQs
1 (a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 4 (a) 5 (b) 6 (a) 7 (a) 8 (c) 9 (c) 10 (d)
11 (c) 12 (b) 13 (a) 14 (c) 15 (b) 16 (c) 17 (c) 18 (a) 19 (d) 20 (a)
21 (b) 22 (d) 23 (c) 24 (d) 25 (c) 26 (d) 27 (c) 28 (c) 29 (c) 30 (b)
31 (a) 32 (d) 33 (a) 34 (c) 35 (b) 36 (c) 37 (a) 38 (c) 39 (a) 40 (d)
41 (d) 42 (a) 43 (b) 44 (b) 45 (c) 46 (d) 47 (d) 48 (a) 49 (b) 50 (c)
51 (c) 52 (b) 53 (b) 54 (c) 55 (c) 56 (c) 57 (c) 58 (b) 59 (d) 60 (d)
61 (b) 62 (b) 63 (a) 64 (b) 65 (c) 66 (d) 67 (d) 68 (a) 69 (d) 70 (a)
71 (a) 72 (a) 73 (c) 74 (d) 75 (a) 76 (a) 77 (a) 78 (d) 79 (d) 80 (c)
81 (b) 82 (b) 83 (a) 84 (d) 85 (c) 86 (b)

> Special Types Questions

87 (a) 88 (a) 89 (a) 90 (a) 91 (a) 92 (a) 93 (d) 94 (a) 95 (a) 96 (a)
97 (c) 98 (a) 99 (a) 100 (d) 101 (a) 102 (a) 103 (d) 104 (d) 105 (d) 106 (d)
107 (b) 108 (b) 109 (a) 110 (a) 111 (b) 112 (d) 113 (c) 114 (a) 115 (a) 116 (b)
117 (c)

> NCERT & NCERT Exemplar MCQs

118 (a) 119 (d) 120 (b) 121 (d) 122 (a) 123 (c) 124 (a) 125 (d) 126 (a) 127 (c)
128 (d) 129 (c) 130 (a) 131 (c) 132 (b) 133 (d) 134 (d) 135 (c) 136 (d) 137 (b)

Hints & Explanations

1 (a) Earth exerts an attractive force on all the material 7 (a) The area swept out by the given planet in time
objects as it has a tendency to attract all of them interval ∆t is
towards it. 1
∆A = | r × PP′ |
So, going uphill is a lot more tiring than going downhill 2
as more efforts are required to work against the v
attractive force of earth. P′ v
∆A
3 (c) According to Kepler’s second law of motion, the P (Planet)
line that joins any planet to the sun sweeps equal area in r
equal intervals of time. S
(Sun)
Given, areas SAB and SCD are equal,
so t1 = t 2 1
⇒ ∆A = ( r × v∆t ) (Qarc PP ′ = v∆t )
4 (a) The law of areas (Kepler’s second law) says that 2
areal velocity is constant, i.e. the line joining the planet
sweeps out equal areas in equal interval of time. 8 (c) From Kepler’s second law, the areal velocity can be
given as
The area swept out by the planet of mass m in time dA L
interval ∆t is given as =
dt 2m
Hints & Explanations

1
∆A = r ( vdt ) Iω mr2ω
2 = =
2m 2m
dA d  1  1
then areal velocity = =  r( vdt ) = rv dA ∴ L = Iω 
dt dt  2  2 ⇒ ∝ ωr 2  2
mvr L
dt and I = mr 
= = = constant
2m 2m 9 (c) For a particle, angular momentum is L = r × p
i.e. angular momentum is conserved. So, we can say So, magnitude of angular momentum = | L |
that the law of areas can be understood as a ⇒ | L | = | r | | p | sin θ
consequence of conservation of angular momentum.
where, θ = angle between vector r and p or r and v.
 ⇒ | L | = L = r mv sin θ (Q p = mv ) If velocities at point A, B and C are v A , vB and vC
respectively, thus v A = v max , vC = v min
or L = mv r sin θ
When θ = 90° , then Therefore, we can write
L = mvr = magnitude of angular momentum. v A > vB > vC …(i)
Here, θ = 90° means r and v are mutually Kinetic energy (K) of the planet at any point is given as
perpendicular. 1
K = mv2
So, for the planet at position P, LP = mP rP vP . 2
1
10 (d) By Kepler’s second law of planetary motion, for a Thus, the kinetic energies, at A, K A = mv2A
moving planet around the sun, angular momentum 2
remains conserved. 1 2
At B, K B = mvB
i.e. m1 v1 r1 = m2 v2 r2 2
but m1 = m2 1
and at C, K C = mvC2
∴ v1 r1 = v2 r2 2
v1 r2 From Eq. (i), we can write
⇒ =
v2 r1 K A > K B > KC
v
For points R and P, R = P
r 13 (a) Given, time period of revolution, T = 84 yr,
vP rR Semi-major axis, a = 287 × 1010 m
Since, rR > rP
T2 ( 84 )2
∴ vR < vP Then, = = 2.98 × 10−34 yr 2 m−3
a 3
( 287 × 10 )10 3
Hence, linear speed of planet is minimum at R.
11 (c) From conservation of angular momentum,
≈ 3.00 × 10−34 yr 2 m−3
L = mvr = constant (for planet at all positions) …(i) Thus, the quotient (T 2 /a 3 ) in units of 10−34 yr 2 m −3 is
Given, maximum velocity of planet, approximately 3 units.
v max = 3 × 104 ms −1 14 (c) From Kepler’s third law of planetary motion,
Minimum velocity of planet, v min = 1 × 103 ms −1 T2
T 2 ∝ r3 ⇒
= constant
Maximum distance of the planet from the sun, r3
rmax = 4 × 104 km then for any two planets, the above equation becomes
2 3
and minimum distance of the planet from the sun, T12 T22 T  r
⇒ = = constant or  1  =  1 
rmin = ? r13 r23
 T2   r2 
From Eq. (i), m v max rmin = m v min rmax
15 (b) If time period for mass and earth are Tm and Te ,
(at maximum distance, velocity is minimum and
vice-versa) respectively. Then, according to Kepler’s third law,
Tm2 Rms 3
⇒ v max ⋅ rmin = v min ⋅ rmax =
Te2 Res3
v ⋅r 1 × 103 × 4 × 104
or rmin = min max = where, Rms is the mars-sun distance and Res is the
v max 3 × 104
earth-sun distance.
4 3/ 2
= × 103 km R   Rms 
3 ∴ Tm =  ms  ⋅ Te Q = 152
. 
 Res   Res 
12 (b) According to the question,
vC
∴ Tm = (1.52)3 / 2 × 365 days
B
Hints & Explanations

16 (c) By Kepler’s third law of planetary motion,

S C 3/ 2
A
T1  a1 
= 
vA T2  a2 
Given, T1 = T , a1 = R
The figure above shows an ellipse traced by a planet T2 = ? a2 = 9R
around the sun S . The closest point A is known as 3/ 2
T  1
3/ 2 2
perihelion and the farthest point C is known as T  R
∴ =  ; =   
aphelion. T2  9R  T2  3 
Since, as per the result of the Kepler’s second law of 
T 1
area, the planet will move slowly ( v min ) only when it is = ⇒ T2 = 27T
farthest from the sun and more rapidly ( v max ) when it is T2 27
nearest to the sun. ∴ Time period of a planet of radius 9 R is 27 T.
 v
17 (c) From Kepler’s third law, T 2 ∝ r3 where, angular velocity, ω = …(ii)
where, T = time period of satellite and r = radius of R
elliptical orbit. From Eqs (i) and (ii), we get
Here, r1 = R (radius of earth) + 5R = 6R v2
a= …(iii)
and r2 = R + 2R = 3R Rm
Hence, T12 ∝ r13 and T22 ∝ r23 where, v = magnitude of velocity and Rm = radius of
the moon.
T22 r23 ( 3R )3 2πRm
So, = = Also, speed of moon, v = , where T = time period
T12 r13 ( 6R )3 T
of revolution.
T22 1 1
or = ⇒ T22 = T12 On putting the above value of v in Eq. (iii), we get
T12 8 8 2
 2πRm  1 4 π 2 Rm
24 a=  × =
T2 = = 6 2h [QT1 = 24 h]  T  Rm T2
2 2
24 (d) We know that, gravitational force between the earth
T2 and the sun is
18 (a) Given, the quotient Q =
a3 GMm
FG =
For A, a = 10.8 units = 10.8 × 1010 m, T = 0.615 yr r2
T2 ( 0.615 )2 y2 where, M is mass of the sun and m is mass of the earth.
⇒ Q= = When G decreases with time, the gravitational force FG
a3 (10.8 )3 × 1030 m3
will become weaker with time. As, FG is changing with
⇒ A = 3.00 × 10−34 y 2 m−3 time, so the earth will not be revolving around the sun
So, the missing term A is approximately equal to 3 in a closed orbit strictly. Also, the radius may increase,
units. since the attraction force is becoming weaker. Hence,
after long time period, the earth will leave the solar
19 (d) If the time period and radius of satellites A and B system.
are TA , TB and rA , rB , respectively. Then, from Kepler’s
law, 25 (c) As we know that, period of revolution,
TA2 rA3 12 (104 )3 2πr r r3 / 2
= ⇒ = T= = 2π = 2π
TB2 rB3 82 rB3 v GM / r GM
[QTA = 1h, T2 = 8 h, rA = 104 km, rB = ?]  GM 
Q Orbital speed , v = 
⇒ rB3 = 64 × (104 )3  r 

∴ rB = 4 × 104 km 4π 2 3
T2 = r = kr3
2π rA 2π × 104 GM
Speed of satellite A, v A = = 4π 2
TA 1 ∴ k=
GM
= 2π × 104 km/h
⇒ GMk = 4 π 2
2π rB 2π × 4 × 104
Speed of satellite B, vB = = GMm
TB 8 26 (d) According to the question, force = = mω 2 r
r3 / 2
= π × 104 km/h
GMm 4 π 2 mr  2π 
The speed of B relative to A when they are close is ⇒ 3/ 2
= QT = ω 
vBA = v A − vB r T2
Hints & Explanations

= 2π × 104 − π × 104  4π 2  5/ 2
⇒ T2 =   ⋅r
= π × 104 km/h  GM 
20 (a) Due to huge amounts of opposite charges on the sun ⇒ T 2 ∝ r5 / 2
and the earth, electrostatic force of attraction will be
produced. Gravitational force which is already exist 27 (c) If the law of gravitation suddenly changes and
between sun and earth is also attractive in nature. So, becomes an inverse cube law, then the law of areas still
both forces will be added and obey inverse square law holds. This is because the force will still be central
and are central forces. As both the forces are of same force, due to which angular momentum will remain
nature, hence all the three Kepler’s laws will be valid. constant.
22 (d) In a circular motion, the centripetal acceleration, Also, for a planet of mass m revolving around the sun of
mass M, we can write according to the question,
a = ω 2R …(i)
 GMm mv2 Gm ⋅ m Gm2
F = = Gravitational force, F1 = = …(i)
a3 a d12 d12
mv2 Similarly,
[Q Centripetal force, mω 2 a = ]
a d2
where, a is radius of orbiting planet. m m
GM 1
Orbital speed, v = ⇒ v∝ Gm 2
a a Gravitational force, F2 = …(ii)
Time period of revolution of a planet, d 22
2πr On dividing Eq. (i) by Eq. (ii), we get
T= 2
v F1  d 2 
On putting the value of orbital speed, we get = 
F2  d1 
2πa 2πa 2
T= = d 
2
GM GM ∴ F2 = F1  1 
a  d2 
⇒ T 2 ∝ a4 31 (a) Gravitational force does not depend on the medium
Hence, the orbit of the planet around sun will not be between the masses. So, the liquid filled between the
elliptical because for elliptical orbit T 2 ∝ a 3 . masses of specific gravity 3 will not have any effect on
gravitational force.
 GM  GM
As force F =  3  m = g ′m, where g ′ = 3 . So, it will remain same, i.e. F.
 a  a
32 (d) The angle between GC and positive X -axis is 30°
Since, g ′ = acceleration due to gravity is constant, hence and so is the angle between GB and negative X -axis.
path followed by a projectile will be approximately
Y
parabolic (as T ∝ a 2 ).
28 (c) The force of gravity on a body at a height h above the A m
surface of the earth is given by F
GMm 2m
F = G 30°
X
( R + h )2
F F
B C
where, m = mass of the body and M = mass of earth. m m
As we know that, weight of an object is the force (force From figure, resolving the forces on 2m due to masses
of gravity) with which the earth attracts it. at B and C along X -axis.
Then, according to the question, ⇒ | Fx (net) | = | F cos 30° i$ − F cos 30° i$ | = 0
GMm 1 GMm
= Similarly along Y-axis,
(R + h )2
16 R2 | Fy (net) | = | F $j − ( F sin 30° + F sin 30° ) $j |
GM
= gravitational acceleration. F F
where, = F $j −  +  $j = | F$j − F$j | = 0
R2 2 2
1 1 F net = Resultant force on mass atG due to masses at A , B
=
( R + h )2 16R 2
and C = Fx2 (net) + F y2 (net) = 0
R 1 R+h
or = or =4
R+h 4 R 33 (a) The figure of three uniform spheres of mass M and
radius R is shown below
h = 3R
Hints & Explanations

2R
29 (c) The gravitational forces are mutually equal and
opposite, hence the ratio of gravitational pull of the
earth on the planet and that of planet on the earth will F F
be 1 : 1.
F
30 (b) From Newton’s law of gravitation, the two equal F
point masses are separated by a distance d1 is shown 60°
below F F 2R
d1 2R

m m
 Force between any two spheres of mass M and radius R is ∴ x1 + x2 = [12R − ( R + 2R )] …(i)
M ⋅ M GM 2 Gravitational force between both spheres is same and
F = G⋅ = …(i) given by
( 2R )2 4R 2
5m ⋅ m 5Gm2
Net force on any sphere due to other two is given by F = G⋅ ⇒ F = …(ii)
(12R )2 (12R )2
F net = F 2 + F 2 + 2F 2 cos 60° = 3 F
F Gm
Acceleration of bigger sphere, a1 = =
5m (12R )2
Putting the value of F from Eq. (i), we get
[using Eq. (ii)]
3 GM 2
F net = ∴ Distance travelled by bigger sphere,
4 R2
1 1 Gm
34 (c) A point mass m is located at the centre of the square x1 = a1 t 2 = ⋅ ⋅t2 …(iii)
2 2 (12R )2
ABCD. Let gravitational force m and m1 is
 Gmm1  Similarly, acceleration of smaller sphere,
| F1 | =  2 F 5Gm
 (a/ 2 )  a2 = =
m (12R )2
 Gmm2 
and between m and m2 is | F2 | =  2
as shown ∴ Distance travelled by smaller sphere,
 (a/ 2 )  1 1 5Gm 2
below x2 = a2 t 2 = ⋅ ⋅t …(iv)
a 2 2 (12R )2
A B
F2 m2 Putting these values of x1 and x2 in Eq. (i), we have
m1 F1
1 Gm 1 5Gm 2
⋅ 2
⋅t2 + ⋅ ⋅ t = 9R
m 2 (12R ) 2 (12R )2
a
2a

F2 F1
3R (12R )2
⇒ t2 =
D C Gm
m2 m1
From Eq. (iv), we have
Q Along BD there are two forces of same magnitude F2 1 5Gm 3R (12R )2
acting between m and m2 (on B or D) x2 = ⋅ 2
×
2 (12R ) Gm
Net gravitational force along BD,
15R
Fnet (BD ) = F2 − F2 = 0 = = 7.5R
2
Similarly, net gravitational force along AC,
37 (a) For a point outside the spherical shell as shown
Fnet ( AC ) = F1 − F1 = 0 below
∴ Net force on m is | Fnet | = zero P (m)
d
35 (b) Gravitational force between masses m and ( M − m ) is FP

Gm( M − m )
F = O
r2
dF
For maximum force, =0 M
dm
According to Newton’s gravitational law, gravitational
d  GmM Gm2  m 1
⇒  − 2  = 0 ⇒ M − 2m = 0 ⇒ = force on point mass m at P is
dm  r2 r  M 2 GmM
| FP | =
36 (c) The figure of two spherical bodies of masses m and d2
Hints & Explanations

5m and radii R and 2R is shown below 38 (c) Net resultant force at point P inside a hollow
5m spherical shell will be zero because the attractive forces
m
due to various parts of the shell cancel out each other.
2R
x1 x2 R
P(m
A )
9R
r
12R O

Let both spheres collide at point A and after time t, x1 be

the distance travelled by bigger sphere while x2 be the
distance travelled by smaller sphere. i.e. | FP (net) | = zero
 39 (a) The force of attraction on small spheres due to big 44 (b) It is given that, the density of planet is twice the
sphere are equal and opposite in direction as shown density of earth and both of them have same
below. acceleration due to gravity.
if g and g ′ are the acceleration due to gravity of earth
F and planet, then g = g ′
m
A B G 4 3  G 4
m ∴ πR ρ = 2 × πR ′ 3 ( 2ρ )
F R 2  3  R ′ 3
There is no net force on the bar but only a torque which R
⇒ R′ =
is nearly equal to F times the length of the bar, where F 2
is the force of attraction between a big sphere and the
neighbouring small sphere. 45 (c) Initially, the weight of the passenger at the earth’s
surface w = mg = 60 × 10 = 600 N.
40 (d) The force acting on the particle of mass m at surface
Finally, the weight of the passenger at the surface of the
of the earth
mass = 60 × 4 = 240 N and during the flight in between
F = mg …(i) somewhere its weight will be zero because at that point,
where, g = acceleration due to gravity at the earth’s gravitational pull of earth and mars will be equal.
surface. Only the curve (c) represents the weight = 0.
GM E
Also, g= …(ii) So, (c) is correct option.
RE2
46 (d) Consider the given diagram,
Then, from Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
GmM E
⇒ F = mg =
RE2
Hence, options (a) and (b) are correct. Sun
m
41 (d) Gravitational acceleration (g) at the centre of earth r
is zero, hence weight of body ( w = mg ) at the centre of Earth Object
earth becomes zero.
n
− r12 m m 
42 (a) Given, F1 = − F2 = GM 02  1 22  Force on the object due to the earth,
r123  M0  G ′ M E m 10GM E m
F = = (Q G ′ = 10 G )
where, r12 = r1 − r2 R2 R2
Acceleration due to gravity,  GM E m
= 10   = (10 g ) m = 10 mg ...(i)
| F | GM 02 ( m1 m2 )n 1  R2 
g= = 2 ×  GM E 
mass r12 ( M 0 )2 n (mass) Q g = 
 R2 
Since, g depends upon position vector r12 , hence it will GM s′ m
be different for different objects. Now, force on the object due to the sun , F ′ =
r2
As g is not constant, hence constant of proportionality G (M s )m  ′ Ms
will not be constant in Kepler’s third law. = Q M s = 
10 r 2  10 
Hence, Kepler’s third law will not be valid.
As r >> R (radius of the earth)
As the force is of central nature, hence, first two
Kepler’s laws will be valid. ⇒ F ′ will be very small, so the effect of the sun will be
neglected.
43 (b) As we know that, acceleration due to gravity is
Now, as g ′ = 10 g
GM
g= Hence, weight of person = mg ′ = 10 mg [from Eq. (i)]
Hints & Explanations

R2 i.e. gravity pull on the person will increase.

Given, M ′ = 2M [Q mass gets doubled] Due to it, walking on ground would become more
⇒ R ′ = (R / 2) [Q radius gets halved] difficult.
Then, acceleration becomes Escape velocity vc is proportional to g,
GM ′ G ( 2M ) 8 GM i.e. vc ∝ g
⇒ g′ = = = As, g ′ > g ⇒ vc ′ > vc
R ′2 ( R / 2 )2 R2
Hence, rain drops will fall much faster.
∴ g ′ = 8g
To overcome the increased gravitational force of the
Thus, the new acceleration due to gravity g ′ is 8 times earth, the airplanes will have to travel much faster.
that of g.
 2
47 (d) Since, centripetal acceleration of moon,  RE 
1 g′ = g  
am ∝ …(i)  RE + h 
Rm2
R 
Q According to the question, h =  E 
Acceleration due to gravity,  2
1
g∝ 2 …(ii)  
2
RE  RE  4
∴ g′ = g  = g …(ii)
On dividing Eq. (ii) by Eq. (i), we get 3 RE  9
 
2  2 
g R2  R  R −2
= m2 =  m  = E−2 On substituting Eq. (ii) in Eq. (i), we get
am R E  R E  Rm
4 mg 4
w′ = = w
Hence, options (b) and (c) are correct. 9 9
48 (a) Given, time period of the moon, T = 27.3 days 51 (c) The acceleration due to gravity for height h above
Radius of orbit, Rm = 3.84 × 108 m the surface of the earth is
2
Centripetal acceleration is given as  R 
g′ = g  
4 π 2 Rm   2π 2    R + h
a= Q a = ω R = 
2
 Rm 
T 2
  T   2 2
g  R  1  R 
2 ⇒ =g  ⇒ = 
 22 2  R + h 2  R + h
4 ×   × (3.84 × 108 )
 7 ( R + h )2 = 2R 2
= or
(27.3 × 24 × 60 × 60) 2
or R + h = 2R
≈ 0.0027 ms −2
⇒ h = ( 2 − 1) R
From the above value we can say that, centripetal
 1  1
acceleration of the moon due to earth’s gravity is much 52 (b) Given, g ′ =   g or g ′ / g =
smaller than the value of acceleration due to gravity g on  100 100
the surface of the earth. For height h above the surface of the earth,
2 2
49 (b) Given that at some height h, acceleration due to  R  g′  R 
gravity, g′ = g  ⇒ = 
 R + h g  R + h
g
g h = 4.9 m/s 2 ≈ … (i) 2
2  1   R  R 1
⇒   =  ⇒ =
∴ The ratio of acceleration due to gravity at earth’s  100  R + h  R + h 10
surface and at some altitude h is ∴ h = 10 R − R = 9 R
 h g R
1 +  = = 2 [from Eq. (i)] 53 (b) Given, height, h = E
 Re  gh 2
h Acceleration due to gravity at altitude h is given by
∴ = 2−1 g g
Re g′ = 2
= 2
or h = 0.414 × Re  h   RE / 2
1 +  1 + 
h = 0.414 × 6400 km  RE   RE 
(Q given, radius of earth, Re = 6400 km = 6.4 × 106 m) g g 4g
= 2
= 2
= …(i)
or h = 2649.6 km = 2.6 × 10 m 6
 1  3 9
1 +   
Hints & Explanations

Thus, at 2.6 × 106 m above the earth’s surface, the  2  2

acceleration due to gravity decreases to 4.9 m/s 2 . Weight of the body at the earth’s surface,
50 (c) Weight of the body at the surface of the earth, w = mg = 45 N …(ii)
w = mg . Then, weight of the body at altitude h is
4
Weight of the body at any point w.r.t. earth’s surface w ′ = mg ′ = mg …(iii)
= Mass of the body × Acceleration due to gravity at the 9
point From Eqs. (ii) and (iii), we get
4
⇒ w ′ = mg ′ …(i) w′ = × 45 = 20 N
The gravitational acceleration experienced by that point 9
for height h above the surface of the earth is
 54 (c) Assuming earth of radius R, then at a point inside 57 (c) Given, weight of the body, w = mg = 200 N,
such that r < R, acceleration due to gravity, g ∝ r
where m is the mass of the body and g (≈ 10 m/s 2 ) is
and at a point outside such that r > R, acceleration due to gravity at the surface of the earth.
Acceleration due to gravity, Since, mass m remains constant irrespective of the
1 position of the body on the earth. However, g is not
g∝ 2
r constant and its value at a depth d below the earth’s
So, the variation of g with r can be represented by surface is given as
 d
g g ′ = g 1 −  … (i)
 R
where, R is the radius of the earth.
Multiplying m on both sides of Eq. (i), we get
 d
mg ′ = mg 1 − 
R r  R
Hence, option (c) is correct. Thus, the weight of the body at half way down
 R
55 (c) Gravitational field of a solid sphere is maximum at  i. e. d =  to the centre of the earth is
 2
its surface ( r = R ) and its value at surface,  R / 2
GM mg ′ = 200 × 1 − 
E= 2  R 
R
 1 1
From graph given in the question, = 200 1 −  = 200 ×
 2 2
E = 100 N
3 ∴ The body will weigh 100 N half-way down to the
centre of the earth.
2 58 (b) Acceleration due to gravity at poles,
g p = 10 ms−2
Weight of box at poles,
1 2 R w p = 196 N
We can observe that So, mass of box,
GM 1 GM 2 wp
E1 = = 2 and E2 = =3 m= = 19.6 kg
(1)2
( 2 )2 gp
or GM 1 = 2 …(i) Now, due to rotation of earth acceleration due to gravity
and GM 2 = 12 …(ii) at equator,
On dividing Eq. (i) by Eq. (ii), we get g e = g p − Rω 2 …(i)
M1
=
2 1
= Here, g p = 10 ms−2 , R = 6400 × 103 m,
M 2 12 6
2π
ω= and T = 24 × 3600 s
56 (c) Given, radius of earth, RE = 6400 km T
Distance from centre of earth, r = 2000 km Now, substituting the given values in
Distance from the surface of earth, Eq. (i), we get
d = RE − r = 6400 − 2000 g e = g p − 0.034
Hints & Explanations

= 4400 km = 4.4 × 106 m = 10 − 0.034

= 9.966 ms−2
If g ′ be the acceleration due to gravity below the
surface of earth at a depth d, then So, weight of box at equator,
we = g e × m = 9.966 × 19.6
 d 
g ′ = g 1 −  = 195.32 N
 RE 
59 (d) Acceleration due to gravity at height h above
 4.4 × 106  earth’s surface,
= 9. 8 1 −  [Q g = 9.8 m/s ]
2
2
 6.4 × 106   R 
gh = g  
= 9.8 × 0.3125 = 3.06 m/s 2  R + h
 2 On dividing Eq. (i) by Eq. (ii), we get
  −2
 1   h G1
= g  = g 1 +  =2
 1+ h   R G2
 R 63 (a) Given, potential energy of system,
 2h  U = − 7.79 × 1028 J
= g 1 − 
 R Mass of the earth, M E = 6 × 1024 kg
Acceleration at depth d below earth’s surface,
Mass of the moon, M m = 7.4 × 1022 kg
 d
g d = g 1 −  The potential energy of the earth-moon system is
 R
GM E ⋅ M m
Given, when h = 1 km, so g d = g h U=−
r
 d  2h 
or g 1 −  = g 1 −  where, r is the mean distance between earth and moon
 R   R GM E M m
∴ r= −
⇒ d = 2h or d = 2 km U
60 (d) Two point masses m1 and m2 are separated by a 6.67 × 10−11 × 6 × 1024 × 7.4 × 1022
=−
distance r is shown as −7.79 × 1028
r
m1 m2 = 3.8 × 108 m

Gravitational potential energy (U) of the above system 64 (b) Amount of work done in moving the given body
is given as from one point to another against the gravitational force
Gm1 m2 is equal to the change in potential energy of the body.
U=− Consider a point mass m at a height h ( = R ) above the
r
surface of the earth as shown in the figure
i.e. gravitational potential energy ∝ m1 m2 and
1
gravitational potential energy ∝ or gravitational
r h=R
potential energy is directly proportional to the product
of the masses of particles and inversely proportional to
the separation between them. R
61 (b) For a system of particles, all possible pairs are taken
and total gravitational potential energy is the algebraic M
sum of the potential energies due to each pair, applying
the principle of superposition.
Total gravitational potential energy
m1 As we know, the potential energy of body of mass m on
GMm
the surface of earth is V1 = − … (i)
r3
R
r1
where, G = gravitational constant,
M = mass of earth and R = radius of earth.
m2 r2 m3 When the mass is raised to a height h from the surface
of the earth, then the potential energy of the body
− Gm1 m2 Gm2 m3 Gm1 m3
= − − becomes
r1 r2 r3 GMm
V2 = −
 − Gm1 m2   − Gm2 m3   − Gm1 m3  (R + h )
=  +  +  Here, h = R (given)
Hints & Explanations

 r1   r2   r3 
GMm
⇒ V2 = − … (ii)
62 (b) Two point masses m1 and m2 are separated by a 2R
distance r is shown as Thus, the change in potential energy, ∆V = V2 − V1
r Substituting the values from Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
m1 m2
GMm GMm
− Gm1 m2 ∆V = − +
As,we know G1 = …(i) 2R R
r
GMm gR 2 m  GM 
When separation between the particle is doubled, i.e. 2r, = = Q g = R 2 
then 2R 2R
Gm1 m2 mgR
G2 = − …(ii) =
2r 2
 65 (c) Consider a point P at a distance r(> R ) from the 2  3 L 3L
Also, AG = BG = CG = × =
centre of the earth (mass M E and radius R) is as shown 3  2  3
below
 1 1 1 
⇒ VT = − Gm  + + 
P  AG BG CG 

R r  3 × 3 9 Gm − 3 3 Gm
= − Gm  =− or
 3 L 3L L
O
Hence, options (b) and (c) are correct.
2GM
ME 68 (a) As we know that, escape velocity, ve = …(i)
The gravitational potential at point P is R
GM E where, M is mass of planet.
Vg ( r ) = −
r So, on the basis of Eq. (i), it can be said that escape
velocity will depend upon the mass of the planet (M ).
66 (d) Gravitational potential at some height h from the
surface of the earth is given by 69 (d) Escape velocity on the surface of earth is given by
GM v = 2g Re
Vg = − …(i)
R+h i.e. v ∝ Re
and acceleration due to gravity at some height h Hence, escape velocity does not depend on the mass and
from the earth surface can be given as direction of projection of body, it depends on the radius
GM of earth.
g′ = …(ii)
( R + h )2 Hence, options (a) and (c) are correct.
On dividing Eq. (i) by Eq. (ii), we get 71 (a) Given, escape velocity on the surface of earth,
| Vg |
⇒ =R+h (iii) 2GM E
g′ ve =
RE
Given,Vg = − 5.4 × 107 J kg −2 , g ′ = 6.0 ms −2
where, M E = mass of the earth and RE = radius of the
and radius of earth, R = 6400 km. earth.
Substituting these values in Eq. (iii), we get Now according to the question, radius of earth,
5.4 × 107 R′ = R E / 4
=R+h
6.0  2 GM E 
2GM E 2GM E
⇒ 9 × 106 = R + h ⇒ ve′ = = 4  =2
R′  R E  RE
h = 9 × 106 − R
or ve′ = 2 ve
h = 9 × 106 − 6.4 × 106 Hence, the escape velocity will be doubled.
⇒ h = 2.6 × 106 m 72 (a) A black hole is a super dense planetary material
⇒ h = 2600 km formed due to the continued compression.
67 (d) Consider three particles A, B and C of equal mass m If R be the approximate radius of super compressed
kept at vertices of an equilateral triangle of side L is earth such that it behave as a black hole.
shown as In this case,
A
m ve = c, where c is velocity of light (3 × 108 m/s).
2GM
Hints & Explanations

L ve = =c
R
G
2GM 2 × 6.67 × 10− 11 × 5.98 × 1024
m m ⇒ R= =
B C c2 9 × 1016
If gravitational potential at point A, B and C areV A ,VB
andVC respectively, then total gravitational potential at = 8.8 × 10− 3 ≈ 10− 2 m
centre, i.e. centroid of triangle G,
73 (c) The kinetic energy of an asteroid of mass m and
VT = V A + VB + VC speed vi is
Gm Gm Gm  GM 
⇒ VT = − − − Q V = − r  Ki =
1 2
mvi …(i)
AG BG CG 2
 The potential energy of asteroid at a distance 10 RE is 1 2 2 GMm
mv − =0
GM E m 2 R
Ui = − …(ii)
10RE 4 GM 4 × 6.67 × 10− 11 × 3 × 1031
⇒ v2 = =
where, M E is mass of earth. R 1011
∴ Initial energy of the asteroid is ⇒ v = 2.83 × 105 m / s
1 GM E m
Ei = K i + U i = mvi2 − 76 (a) Given, escape velocity on the surface of earth,
2 10RE ve = 111
. km/h.
As it hits earth with a speed of v f (RE and M E are Escape velocity on the surface of the earth,
radius and mass of earth), then ve = 2gRE
Final energy of the asteroid is
2GM E
1
E f = mv2f −
GM E m or ve =
2 RE RE
ME
According to law of conservation of energy, Mass of moon, M m =
Ei = E f 81
1 2 GM E m 1 2 GM E m R
mvi − = mv f − Radius of moon, Rm = E
2 10RE 2 RE 4
2GM 2GM ∴ Escape velocity on the surface of moon,
⇒ v2f − E
= vi2 − E
RE 10RE ME
2G
2G M m 81
2GM E  1 vm = =
⇒ v2f = vi2 + 1 −  Rm RE
RE  10
4
74 (d) As we know that, force on satellite is only
2 2GM E 2
gravitational force which will always be towards the = = ve
centre of earth. Thus, the acceleration of S is always 9 RE 9
directed towards the centre of the earth. 2
= . = 2.46 km/h
× 111
75 (a) Let us assume that stars are moving in 9
x y-plane with origin as their centre of mass as shown in 77 (a) Since, the escape velocity of earth can be given as
the figure below
y ve = 2gR
8
⇒ ve = R πGρ (ρ = density of earth)…(i)
R 3
O
x
As it is given that the radius and mean density of planet
M R R M are twice as that of earth. So, escape velocity at planet
R will be
8
v p = 2R πG 2ρ …(ii)
z 3
According to question,
Dividing Eq. (i) by Eq. (ii), we get
mass of each star, M = 3 × 1031 kg
8
R πGρ
and diameter of circle, 2R = 2 × 1011 m ve 3 v 1
= ⇒ e = = 1: 2 2
⇒ R = 1011 m vp 8 vp 2 2
2R πG 2ρ
Potential energy of meteorite at O, origin $j is, 3
Hints & Explanations

2 GMm
U total = − 78 (d)Q Angular momentum,
r
If v is the velocity of meteorite at O then GM
L = mvr = m r = m GMr
Kinetic energy K of the meteorite is r
1  GM 
K = mv2 Q v = 
2  r 
To escape from this dual star system, total mechanical ∴ L∝ r
energy of the meteorite at infinite distance from stars
must be at least zero. If r is increased to 16r, then new angular momentum,
By conservation of energy, we have L′ ∝ 16r ⇒ L′ = 4 L
 79 (d) Orbital speed of a satellite in a circular orbit is Since, R > > h
 GM  GM  GM 
v0 =   ∴ vO = = gR Q g = R 2 
 r0  R
Escape velocity of the satellite,
where r0 is the radius of the circular orbit.
2 GM 2 GM
So, kinetic energies of satellites A and B are ve = = = 2gR
1 GMm R+h R
TA = mA vOA 2
=
2 2R Since, we know that in order to escape the earth’s
1 GM ( 2m ) GMm gravitational field a satellite must get escape velocity.
TB = mB vOB =2
=
2 2( 2R ) 2R ∴ Change in velocity,
So, ratio of their kinetic energies is ∆v = ve − vO
TA = gR ( 2 − 1)
=1
TB
86 (b) According to the given condition in the question,
1
80 (c) KE of satellite, K = mvo2 after collision the mass of combined system is doubled.
2 Also, this system would be displaced from its circular
2 orbit.
1  GM E  1 GmM E
= m  = So, the combined system revolves around centre of
2  ( RE + h )  2 ( RE + h ) mass of ‘system + earth’ under action of a central force.
GM E Hence, orbit must be elliptical.
[Q orbital velocity of satellite, vo = ]
( RE + h ) 87 (a) For point outside the spherical shell, the
gravitational force on point mass placed at that point P
GmM E
81 (b) KE of a satellite, K = . is just as if the entire mass of the shell is situated at the
2 ( RE + h ) centre O, i.e. as if a point mass M is placed at centre O.
GmM E
⇒ K = [Q RE + h = r ( let )] m
2r P
r
1
Since, K ∝
r
K 1 r2 M
⇒ = O
K 2 r1
K  2r
⇒ =  Gravitational force have two components along the line
K2  r  joining the centre of masses as well as along the
(since, radius is doubled and K 1 = K ) direction perpendicular to this line.
K Only gravitational forces due to various regions of the
∴ K2 =
2 shell along the line joining P and O remains while
components perpendicular to OP cancel out.
82 (b) Gravitational potential energy of a body of mass m
at a distance r from the centre of the earth is Therefore Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason
is the correct explanation of Assertion.
GmM E
=− 88 (a) A point P (mass m) is situated
r P
inside the hollow spherical shell is
Q r = RE + h shown in the figure. r
m
GmM E M
∴ PE = − For point P inside the hollow O
( RE + h ) spherical shell,
− GmM E FP = zero
Hints & Explanations

83 (a) PE of satellite = …(i) The force of gravitation due to various region of the
( RE + h )
spherical shell be attractive and hence from symmetry it
1 GmM E
KE of satellite = + …(ii) can be seen that these forces cancel each other
2 ( RE + h ) completely.
From Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get Therefore, Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason
PE = − 2 KE is the correct explanation of Assertion.
⇒ λ=−2 89 (a) Henry-Cavendish experiment helped to determine
84 (d) Orbital velocity of the satellite is given as, the value of G (G = 6.67 × 10−11 Nm2 kg −2 ).
GM From the value of g (acceleration due to gravity on the
vO = surface of the earth) and RE (radius of the earth)
R+h
 GM E 1
using the relation g = (by using Newton’s law), ⇒ vo ∝
RE2 RE + h
the mass of the earth ( M E ) can be estimated Thus, vo is maximum near the surface of the earth for
gRE2 h = 0.
⇒ ME =
G GM E
where, g = 9.8 ms −2 , ( vo ) max =
RE
RE = 6400 × 103 m
Therefore, Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason
and G = 6.67 × 10−11 Nm2 / kg 2 . is the correct explanation of Assertion.
Therefore, Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason 95 (a) Total energy of a satellite is always negative
is the correct explanation of Assertion. irrespective of the nature of its orbit. It indicates that the
90 (a) Since, acceleration due to gravity decreases above satellite is bound to the earth. At infinity, the potential
the surface of the earth and weight is directly energy and kinetic energy of satellite is zero.
proportional to the acceleration due to gravity, Hence, total energy at infinity is zero, therefore only
so as we go up, we feel light weighted than on the negative energy of satellite is possible when it is
surface of the earth. revolved around the earth.
Therefore, Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason If it is positive or zero, the satellite would leave its
is the correct explanation of Assertion. definite orbit and escape to infinity.
Therefore, Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason
91 (a) Escape speed for moon = 2g ′Rm , where g ′ and Rm
is the correct explanation of Assertion.
both are much smaller than corresponding values on the
earth, hence on substituting the values. 96 (a) The geo-stationary satellite goes around the earth in
−1 west-east direction.
Escape speed on the moon comes out to be 2.3 kms as
calculated below It is because it orbits around earth in the equatorial
plane with a time period of 24 h same as that of rotation
Q g ′ = g / 6 and Rm = 1760 km
of the earth around its axis.
9.8
⇒ Escape speed = 2 × × 1760 × 103 ms −1 Therefore, Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason
6 is the correct explanation of Assertion.
= 2.3 kms −1 97 (c) In a satellite around the earth, every part and parcel
Q ( vi ) min (earth) = 11.2 kms −1 of the satellite has an acceleration towards the centre of
and ( vi ) min (moon) = 2.3 kms −1 the earth which is exactly the value of earth’s
acceleration due to gravity at that position.
Thus, escape speed for the moon is five times smaller
Thus, in the satellite, everything inside it is in a state of
than that of earth.
free fall.
Therefore, Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason Therefore, Assertion is correct but Reason is incorrect.
is the correct explainetion of Assertion.
92 (a) The escape speed for the moon is much smaller and 98 (a) An object is weightless when it is in free fall as
hence any gas molecule formed having thermal velocity during free fall, there is no upward force acting on the
larger than escape speed will escape the gravitational body and this phenomenon is called weightlessness.
pull of the moon. Therefore, Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason
So, moon has no atmosphere. is the correct explanation of Assertion.
Therefore, Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason
99 (a) The pattern of motion of the planets was put forward
is the correct explanation of Assertion.
GM by Ptolemy. According to his scheme of motion, the
93 (d) Escape velocity, ve = 2gR , where g = 2 . planets are moving in circles with the centre of the
R circles themselves moving in larger circles.
2 GM
Hints & Explanations

⇒ ve = So, statement I is correct but II and III are incorrect.

R
1 100 (d) In a ‘geocentric model’ all celestial objects, stars,
i.e. ve ∝ the sun and the planets, all revolve around the earth.
R The only possible motion for celestial objects was
So, if radius is doubled, i.e. R ′ = 2R motion in a circle.
2 GM 1 2 GM v So, statements I and II are correct but III is incorrect.
v ′e = = = e
( 2R ) 2 R 2 101 (a) With reference to the ‘heliocentric model’ of
Therefore, Assertion is incorrect but Reason is correct. planetary motions, the planets revolve around the sun as
its centre.
GM E
94 (a) Orbital velocity of satellite, vo = So, statement I is correct but II, III and IV are incorrect.
( RE + h )
 102 (a) For the gravitational force between an extended 108 (b) Acceleration due to gravity at altitude h,
object (like the earth) and a point mass, the Newton’s g  2h 
universal law of gravitation is not directly applicable. gh = ≈ g 1 − 
(1 + h / R ) 2  R
So, statement I is correct but II and III are incorrect.
 d
2π ( RE + h )3 / 2 At depth d, g d = g 1 − 
104 (d) Time period of satellite =  R
GM E
In both cases with increase in h and d, g decreases.
From the above equation, it is evident that the time At latitude φ, g φ = g − ω 2 R cos 2 φ
period of a satellite depends on mass of the earth ( M E ),
radius of the orbit ( r = RE + h ) and height of the As φ increases, g φ increases.
satellite from the surface of the earth ( h ). Also, we can conclude from the formulae, that it is
So, statements II, III and IV are correct but I is incorrect. independent of mass.
106 (d) Let the original mass of sun was M s and Thus, the statement given in option (b) is incorrect, rest
are correct.
gravitational constant G.
According to the question, 109 (a) As we know that,
M GM 2GM
New mass of sun, M s′ = s g= 2
⇒ ve =
10 R R
New gravitational constant, G ′ = 10G − GMm M
and U= ⇒ g∝ 2
As, the acceleration due to gravity is given as R R
GM E M M
g= …(i) ve ∝ and U ∝
R2 R R
where, M E is the mass of earth and R is the radius of If both mass and radius are increased by 0.5%,
the earth. then ve andU remains unchanged whereas g decrease
Now, new acceleration due to gravity, by 0.5%.
Thus, the statement given in option (a) is incorrect, rest
G ′M E 10 M E G
g′ = 2
= …(ii) are correct.
R R2
110 (a) A geo-stationary satellite is having same sense of
∴ g ′ = 10 g [from Eqs. (i) and (ii)] rotation as that of earth, i.e. west-east direction as shown
This means the acceleration due to gravity has been below
increased. Hence, force of gravity acting on a body Earth
placed on the surface of the earth increases.
Due to this, rain drops will fall faster and
walking on ground would become more difficult.
As, time period of the simple pendulum is
Geostationary
l 1 satellite
T = 2π or T ∝
g g A polar satellite goes around the earth’s pole in
north-south direction as shown below.
Thus, time period of the pendulum also decreases with
the increase in g.
Thus, the statement given in option (d) is incorrect, rest
are correct. Earth
107 (b) Since, cavities are symmetrical w.r.t. O. So, the
gravitational force at the centre is zero, Polar satellite
Hints & Explanations

but gravitational force at the point B( 2, 0, 0 ) is not zero Thus, the statement given in option (a) is correct, rest
due to lack of symmetry. are incorrect.
The radius of the circle z 2 + y2 = 36 is 6. For all points 111 (b) For stable orbit, plane of orbit of satellite must pass
for r ≥ 6, the body behaves such that whole of its mass through the centre of earth.
is concentrated at the centre. So the gravitational Geo-stationary satellites are launched in the equatorial
potential is same. plane.
Above is true for z 2 + y2 = 4 as well. We need more than one satellite for global
Thus, the statement given in option (b) is incorrect, rest communication.
are correct. GM e
Orbital speed of satellite, vo =
r
 So, orbital speed of satellite decrease with the increase 3GM
in the radius of its orbit. ⇒ v=
5R
Thus, the statement given in option (b) is correct, rest
are incorrect. 3GM
⇒ v min =
112 (d) The statement given in option (d) is correct, rest are 5R
incorrect and these can be corrected as Therefore, minimum speed of the projectile with
The energy required to rocket an orbiting satellite out of which it reaches the surface of second sphere is
earth’s gravitational influence is less than the energy 3GM
required to project a stationary object at the same height .
(as the satellite) out of earth’s influence. 5R
If the potential energy is zero at infinity, the total C. Let v f be the speed with which projectile hits the
energy of an orbiting satellite is negative of its kinetic second sphere. Applying principle of conservation
energy. of energy, we get
The first artificial satellite was launched by Soviet 27 GM
scientists in the year 1957. ⇒ vf =
5R
113 (c)
Hence, A → 2, B → 1and C → 3.
A. The projectile is acted upon by two mutually
opposing gravitational forces of the two spheres. 114 (a) Let the mass of the planet be M , that of S 1 be m1 and
Hence, there must be a point on the line OC, where of S 2 be m2 . Let the radius of the orbit of S 1 be R1
Fext = 0, i.e. net external force due to gravitational ( = 104 km) and of S 2 be R2 . Let v1 and v2 be the linear
attraction force vanishes. The point is called neutral speeds of S 1 and S 2 with respect to the planet. The
point N . Let it be at a distance r from O. figure shows the situation.
⇒ ON = r v1

R R v2
F2 R2
O F1 N C
S1 S2
R1
M 4M
r
6R

At N , F1 = F2
If the period of revolutions of satellites S 1 and S 2
GmM Gm( 4 M ) are T1 (1h ) and T2 ( 8h ), respectively.
⇒ = ⇒ r = 2R or − 6R
r2 ( 6 R − r )2 As the square of the time period is proportional to
The neutral point r = − 6 R is not relevant. the cube of the radius,
3 2 2
Thus, ON = r = 2R.  R2   T2  8 h
  =  =  = 64
B. To project the projectile with minimum speed from  R1   T1  1h 
M . It is sufficient to project the particle with a speed R2
which would enable it to reach N . After N , ⇒ = 4 ⇒R2 = 4 R1 = 4 × 104 km
R1
projectile will be attracted by 4 M .
2π R1
At the neutral point, speed approaches zero, Now, the time-period of S 1 is 1 h. So, =1
i.e. vN = 0 v1
Total energy of the particle at N = E N 2πR1
⇒ Speed of S 1 , v1 = = 2π × 104 km h −1 ...(i)
⇒ E N = GPE due to M + GPE due to 4M 1
Hints & Explanations

− GmM 4GMm Similarly, speed of

EN = − …(i) 2π R2
2R 4R S 2 , v2 = = π × 104 kmh −1 …(ii)
GmM 8
[Q GPE due to M = − ; r = 2R
2R At the closest separation, they are moving in the same
4GMm direction. Hence, the velocity of S 2 with respect to S 1 is
GPE due to 4 M = − ; r = 4 R]
4R v2 − v1 = π × 104 km h −1 − 2π × 104 kmh −1
From the principle of conservation of mechanical = − π × 104 km h −1 …(iii)
energy,
As seen from S 1 , the satellite S 2 is at a distance
1 2 G mM 4 GMm GMm 4 GMm R2 − R1 = 3 × 104 km at the closest separation. Also, it
mv − − =− −
2 R 5R 2R 4R
 is moving at π × 104 km h −1 in a direction Let mass of the Jupiter be M J .
perpendicular to the line joining them. Thus, the angular Q Centripetal force = Gravitation force
speed of S 2 as observed by S 1 is mv2 GM J m GM J
= or v2 =
v π × 104 km h −1 π r2
ω= = = rad h −1 r r
r 3 × 104 km 3 GM
( rω )2 = J
(Q v = rω )
Hence, A → 3, B → 2, C → 4 and D → 1. r
GM
115 (a) ∴ ω2 = 3 J
GM e m r
A. Initially, energy of satellite Ei = − 2π
4 Re But ω = , where T is the time period.
T
− GM e m
Finally, energy of satellite , E f = 2
 2π  GM J
8 Re ∴   = 3
T r
Change in total energy, ∆E = E f − Ei
 GM e m  GM e m 4 π 2 r3 4 × ( 314
. )2 × ( 4.22 × 108 )3
= −  − −  or MJ = =
 8 Re   4 Re  T 2G (1528
. × 105 )2 × 6.67 × 10−11
 . × 1027 kg ≈ 2 × 1027 kg
= 19
GM e m gRe m GM 
= or Q g = 2  MJ 2 × 1027 1 1
8 Re 8  R e  Now, = ≈ ⇒ MJ = MS
M S 2 × 1030 1000 1000
gRe m 9.8 × 400 × 6.37 × 106
Thus, ∆E = = 119 (d) Since, potential energy is equal to twice the negative
8 8 of kinetic energy of satellite.
[Q g = 9.8 ms 2 , m = 400 kg, R = 6.37 × 106 Total energy of satellite = Potential energy
m] + Kinetic energy.
= 3.13 × 109 J E = V + K = − 2K + K = − K
B. The kinetic energy is reduced and change in KE is 120 (b) Consider r is the distance between sun and earth and
just negative of ∆ E. rocket is at distance x from the earth as shown below
⇒ ∆K = K f − K i = − 3.13 × 109 J
(r – x) x
C. The change in potential energy is twice the change
in the total energy namely, Sun r Earth
∆PE = PE f − PEi = − 6.26 × 109 J
Let gravitational force acting on the rocket be zero at a
Hence, A → 2, B → 3 and C → 1. distance x from earth’s centre and the mass of the rocket
be m.
116 (b) Gravitational force between rocket and the sun
A. If the velocity of satellite is v and mass m, then = Gravitational force between rocket and the earth
1 GM s m GM E m Ms M
KE = mv2 …(i) ⇒ = ⇒ = 2E
2 (r − x )2
x 2
(r − x )2
x
B. Since, potential energy of the satellite Given, M s = 2 × 1030 kg and M E = 6.0 × 1024 kg
= − 2 kinetic energy of satellite
( r − x )2 Ms 2 × 1030
⇒ PE = − mv2 …(ii) ⇒ = =
x2 M E 6.0 × 1024
1
Hints & Explanations

C. Also, total energy = KE + PE = mv2 − mv2 (On putting values of M s and M E )

2
( r − x )2 106
1 2
= − mv ⇒ =
2 x2 3
Hence, A → 2, B → 3 and C → 1. Taking square root on both sides, we get
r − x 103 r 103 × 3
118 (a) Given, orbital period of Jupiter’s satellite or = ⇒ − 1=
x 3 x 3
T = 1769
. days = 1528
. × 105 s
3 3 × 1.5 × 1011
Radius of orbit, r = 4.22 × 108 m or x= × r=
1735 1735
G = 6.67 × 10−11 N-m2 / kg 2 = 2.594 × 108 m
Mass of the sun, M S = 2 × 1030 kg x = 2.6 × 108 m
121 (d) Earth year, TE = 1yr 1 2 mgh  v 2 RE 
mv = ⇒h =  
Saturn year, TS = 29.5 yr 2  h   2gRE − v2 
Radius of earth’s orbit, RE = 15
. × 108 km 1 + 
 RE 
Radius of saturn’s orbit, RS = ? On putting the values, we get
According to Kepler’s planetary law of period,
h = 1600 × 103 m = 16
. × 106 m = 1600 km
T 2 R3
T 2 ∝ R 3 ⇒ E2 = E3 ∴ Distance from the centre of earth,
TS RS
r = RE + h = 6.4 × 106 + 16
. × 106 = 8 × 106 m
3
 1 
2
 1.5 × 108  1 2
  =  124 (a) Initial KE of the body = mv
 29.5  RS  2
RS3 = ( 29.5 )2 × (15
. × 108 )3 GM E m
Initial gravitational PE of the body = −
RE
= 2.947 × 1027 km
At very far away from earth’s surface,
⇒ RS = 1.43 × 109 km
1
RE KE of the body = mv′ 2
122 (a) Given, height, h = 2
2
Gravitational PE of the body = 0
Acceleration due to gravity at altitude h is given by
g Then from conservation of energy
g′ = 1 1 GM E m
 h 
2 ∴ mv′ 2 = mv2 − …(i)
 1 +  2 2 RE
 RE 
If ve is the escape velocity, then
g g g 4
= 2
= 2
= 2
= g 1 2 GM E m
mve = …(ii)
 RE / 2  1 (3 / 2) 9 2 RE
1 +  1 + 
 RE   2 Substituting values from Eq. (ii) in Eq. (i), we get
Weight of the body at earth’s surface 1 1 1
mv′ 2 = mv2 − mve2
w = mg = 63 N 2 2 2
Weight of the body at altitude h = RE / 2, v′ = v − ve = ( 3ve )2 − ve2 = 8ve2
2 2 2

4 4
w ′ = mg ′ = mg = × 63 = 28 N [∴ v = 3ve ]
9 9
v′ = 2 2vE = 2 × 1414
. . kms −1
× 112
123 (c) Let a rocket of mass m be fired vertically with a
speed v and it reach at height h from earth’s surface. = 31.68 kms −1 −
~ 31.7 kms −1
1 125 (d) Energy required to send a satellite out of earth’s
KE of the rocket = mv2
2 gravitational influence is called its binding energy.
GM E m Given, mass of the satellite = 200 kg
PE of the rocket at earth’s surface, V0 = −
RE GM E m
Binding energy of a satellite =
PE of the rocket at height h from earth’s surface, 2( RE + h )

Vh = −
GM E m 6.67 × 10−11 × 6.0 × 1024 × 200
=
( RE + h ) 2( 6.4 × 106 + 0.4 × 106 )
∴ Increase in PE ( ∆V ) = Vh − V0 = 5.9 × 109 J
h
∆V = GM E m × …(i) 126 (a) Spaceship is present in gravitational field of the sun
RE ( RE + h )
Hints & Explanations

as well as in the gravitational field of the mars.

But GM E = gRE2 … (ii)
From Eqs. (i) and (ii)
gRE2 mh mgh
∴ ∆V = =
 h   h  Spaceship
RE2 1 +  1 +  r
 RE   RE  Sun Mars

According to law of conservation of energy,

KE of the rocket = Increase in PE
 ∴ Total potential energy of the spaceship due to sun as approximately circular, since the major gravitational
well as mars force on mercury is due to the sun.
 − GM s m  − GM m m Hence, it revolve around sun and not around earth.
=  + 
 r   Rm  130 (a) As the earth is revolving around the sun in a circular
motion due to gravitational attraction. The force of
[where, M s is mass of sun and M m is mass of mars]
attraction will be of radial nature, i.e. angle between
M M  position vector r and force F is zero. So, torque
= − Gm  s + m 
 r Rm  = | τ | = | r × F | = rF sin 0° = 0
Potential energy of the spaceship outside the solar system 131 (c) As the total energy of the earth satellite bounded
=0  − GM 
system is negative  i.e.  , where a is radius of the
∴ Energy imparted to the spaceship to rocket it out of  2a 
solar system satellite and M is mass of the earth. So, due to the
 M M  viscous force acting on satellite, energy decreases
= 0 − − Gm s + m   continuously and radius of the orbit or height gradually
  r Rm   decreases.
M M  Therefore, debris of satellites fall to the earth.
= Gm  s + m 
 r Rm  132 (b) As observed from the sun, two types of forces are
 2 × 10 30
6.4 × 10 
23 acting on the moon one is due to gravitational attraction
= 6.67 × 10−11 × 1000  +  between the sun and the moon and the other is due to
 2.28 × 10 3.395 × 106 
11
gravitational attraction between the earth and the moon.
≈ 3.1 × 1011 J Therefore, net force on the moon is the resultant of
these two forces. Hence on observing from the sun, the
127 (c) Given, speed of rocket = 2 kms −1 orbit of the moon will not be strictly elliptical because
As 20% of KE is lost due to martian atmospheric total gravitational force on the moon is not central.
resistance. 133 (d) Asteroids are also being acted upon by central
1 80 2 2 gravitational forces, hence they are moving in circular
∴ Total KE available = mv2 × = mv
2 100 5 orbits like planets and obey Kepler’s laws.
Let the rocket be reached at height h from the surface of 134 (d) Gravitational mass of proton is equivalent to its
mars inertial mass and is independent of presence of
neighbouring heavy objects.
GM m m  − GM m m
Increase in PE = −  135 (c) Particles of masses 2M ,m and M are respectively at
( Rm + h )  Rm 
points A, B and C as shown below
h
= GM m m × A B C
Rm ( Rm + h )
2M m M
h 2 G ( 2Mm )
⇒ GM m m × = mv2 Force on B due to A, FBA = towards BA
Rm ( Rm + h ) 5 ( AB )2
(law of conservation of energy) GMm
Force on B due to C, FBC = towards BC
Solving it, we get ( BC )2
Rm + h 5GM m BC = 2 AB
= As,
h 2Rm v2 GMm GMm
⇒ FBC = = < FBA
Rm 5GM m R 5GM m ( 2 AB )2 4 ( AB )2
+1= 2
⇒ m = −1
h Rm v h 2Rm v2 Hence, m will move towards BA, (i.e., 2M ).
Hints & Explanations

On putting values, we get 136 (d) For small objects, say of sizes less than 100 m centre
Rm of mass is very close with the centre of gravity of the
h= ≈ 495 km body. But when the size of object increases, its weight
6.85862
changes and its CM and CG become far from each
128 (d) If the earth is considered as a sphere of different other.
density, in that case value of g will be different at
different points and cannot be zero at any point. 137 (b) Given, e = 0.0167
129 (c) As observed from the earth, the sun appears to move Ratio of maximum speed to minimum speed is
in an approximate circular orbit. As, the gravitational v max 1 + e
=
force of attraction between the earth and the sun always v min 1 − e
follows inverse square law. However, due to relative 1 + 0.0167
motion between the earth and mercury, the orbit of = = 1.033
mercury, as observed from the earth will not be 1 − 0.0167