IB Physics HL D.1.3 Point-Mass Approximation Question Bank
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
D.1.3—Point-mass approximation 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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