Two bodies of equal masses revolve in circular orbits of radii R₁ and R₂ with the same period. Their centripetal forces are in the ratio:
(R₂/R₁)²
R₁/R₂
(R₁/R₂)²
√R₁/R₂
Select the Relevant Formula: The centripetal force () required for a body of mass moving in a circle of radius is given by . Since the time period () is given, it is convenient to use the angular velocity form of centripetal acceleration, , where . [Source 47]
Analyze the Proportionality: Since and (and thus ) are the same for both bodies, the term is a constant constant (). Therefore, the centripetal force is directly proportional to the radius ().
Calculate the Ratio:
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