Explanation:
It is given that, two objects, with masses m₁ and m₂, are originally a distance r apart, and the magnitude of the gravitational force on each one is F. If the objects are moved a distance 2 r apart, we need to find the new gravitational force.
The gravitational force is given by :
[tex]F=G\dfrac{m_1m_2}{r^2}[/tex]...........(1)
Let the force is F' when the objects are moved a distance 2 r apart. So,
[tex]F=G\dfrac{m_1m_2}{(2r)^2}[/tex]
[tex]F'=\dfrac{1}{4}G\dfrac{m_1m_2}{r^2}[/tex]
[tex]F'=\dfrac{1}{4}F[/tex] (from equation (1))
So, it is clear that the magnitude of new force is F/4 i.e. decreases by a factor is 1/4. Hence, this is the required solution.