When two stars of unequal mass orbit each other under their mutual gravitational attraction, where is the center of mass of the system located?
A) point halfway between the centers of the stars
B) point between the stars, closer to the less massive star
C) center of the more massive star
D) point between the two stars, closer to the more massive star

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The center of mass in a system of two stars orbiting each other under their mutual gravitational attraction is located closer to the more massive star. This is because the more massive an object is, the stronger its gravitational pull, causing the center of mass to be closer to it.

When Two Stars of Unequal Mass Orbit Each Other Under