Two identical space probes are orbiting Jupiter. Scientists determine that one of the space probes has a larger gravitational force acting on it than the other. which of the following is the most likely reason for the difference?

A. One space probe reached Jupiter before the other.

B. One space probe has more air resistance than the other.

C. Only one space probe is exerting a gravitational force on the other.

D. One space probe is closer to Jupiter than the other

Question

Avila

Physics

6 February, 06:33

Two identical space probes are orbiting Jupiter. Scientists determine that one of the space probes has a larger gravitational force acting on it than the other. which of the following is the most likely reason for the difference?

A. One space probe reached Jupiter before the other.

B. One space probe has more air resistance than the other.

C. Only one space probe is exerting a gravitational force on the other.

D. One space probe is closer to Jupiter than the other

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Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Ronin Sloan · Answer 1

If the probes are identical, then the one that feels a larger gravitational

force is orbiting closer to Jupiter than the other one is.

If they're not identical, then the one with greater mass will feel more

gravitational force than the one with less mass, even if they're both

the same distance from Jupiter. (We know this from the experimental

observation that fatter people weigh more, even on Earth.)