Two massive objects are fixed in position. A third object is placed directly between the first two at the position at which the total gravitational force on the third object due to the two massive objects is zero. The object is displaced slightly toward one of the two massive objects, the total gravitational force on the third object is now
A)zero.
B)in a direction which depends on which of the massive objects has a greater mass.
C)in the same direction the object is displaced.
D)in the opposite direction to the displacement of the object.
E)perpendicular to the displacement of the object.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The total gravitational force on the third object is now in the same direction the object is displaced. This is because the gravitational force between two objects is always attractive, so the force on the third object from the two massive objects will always be in the same direction as the displacement of the third object.

Two Massive Objects Are Fixed in Position