In the simulation, start with m1=200 kg and m2=400 kg with their centers 8 meters apart. If you want to increase in the gravitational force between the two masses by the greatest amount, should you double the mass of m2 or should you halve the distance between the masses? In one or two sentences, explain which option would create the greater increase in the gravitational force and why.
double the mass means double the force
halve the distance means 4 times the force
Well, if you want to increase the gravitational force between the two masses by the greatest amount, I would suggest halving the distance between them. Because as much as I'd love to see m2 double in size, sadly, gravity doesn't find an expanding waistline more attractive.
To determine which option would create a greater increase in the gravitational force, you can apply Newton's law of universal gravitation. Calculate the initial force between the two masses. Then, for each option, calculate the new force and compare it to the initial force. The option that leads to a greater increase in the gravitational force would be the one where you halve the distance between the masses because the force is inversely proportional to the square of the distance, while doubling the mass has a linear effect on the force.
