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#system of masses

2 public questions tagged with this topic.

Four 3kg masses form a square of side 3m. What is the potential energy of the system? (G\=6.67×10−11N m2/kg2)

4 sides: r = 3m, 2 diagonals: r = 32m. V = −4Gm23−2Gm232. V = −6.67×10−11×9(43+232). V = −6.003×10−10(1.333+0.471)≈−1.08×10−9J. As per NCERT, applying relevant law/formula with correct units and sign convention leads to -1.1 × 10⁻⁹ J. This satisfies dimensional consistency and physical conditions given, so option B is scientifically correct.

Ref: NCERT Class 11 Physics, Thermal Properties and Gravitation.