Q. Four particles each of mass $M$, are located at the vertices of a square with side $L$. The gravitational potential due to this at the centre of the square is
A) $- \sqrt{32}\frac{GM}{L}$
B) $- \sqrt{64}\frac{GM}{L^{2}}$
C) Zero
D) $\sqrt{32}\frac{GM}{L}$
Explanation
(a) Potential at the centre due to single mass $= \frac{- GM}{L/\sqrt{2}}$
Potential at the centre due to all four masses
$= - 4\frac{GM}{L/\sqrt{2}} = - 4\sqrt{2}\frac{GM}{L}$
$= - \sqrt{32} \times \frac{GM}{L}$
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.