IB Physics HL D 1 3 Point Mass Approximation Questions
Practise IB Physics HL D.1.3 by evaluating when extended bodies may be replaced by point masses in force and potential calculations.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2025
- Course
- Physics HL
- Level
- HL
Exam points
- Evaluate point-mass assumptions for spherical planets, satellites and extended bodies.
- Justify using the centre-to-centre separation in Newtonian force models.
- Recognise when size, density or position invalidates a point-mass approximation.
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IB Physics HL D 1 3 Point Mass Approximation Questions question 1
[Maximum number: 2]
There is a proposal to place a satellite in orbit around planet Mars.
Newton's law of gravitation applies to point masses. Suggest why the law can be applied to a satellite orbiting Mars.
Mars is spherical/a sphere and of uniform density so behaves as a point mass
satellite has a much smaller mass/diameter/size than Mars so approximates to a point mass
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