Gravitational Field

1
1

JUNE 2003
(a) Define gravitational potential.
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(b) Explain why values of gravitational potential near to an isolated mass are all negative.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [3]
(c) The Earth may be assumed to be an isolated sphere of radius 6.4 103 km with its mass
of 6.0 1024 kg concentrated at its centre. An object is projected vertically from the
surface of the Earth so that it reaches an altitude of 1.3 104 km.
Calculate, for this object,
(i)

the change in gravitational potential,

change in potential = . J kg1

(ii)

the speed of projection from the Earths surface, assuming air resistance is
negligible.

speed = . m s1
[5]

(d) Suggest why the equation

v 2 = u 2 + 2as
is not appropriate for the calculation in (c)(ii).
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [1]

NOVEMBER 2003

(a) (i)

On Fig. 1.1, draw lines to represent the gravitational field outside an isolated
uniform sphere.

Fig. 1.1
(ii) A second sphere has the same mass but a smaller radius. Suggest what
difference, if any, there is between the patterns of field lines for the two spheres.

[3]

(b) The Earth may be considered to be a uniform sphere of radius 6380 km with its mass of
5.98 1024 kg concentrated at its centre, as illustrated in Fig. 1.2.

mass
5.98 1024 kg

Equator

Fig. 1.2

A mass of 1.00 kg on the Equator rotates about the axis of the Earth with a period of
1.00 day (8.64 104 s).

Calculate, to three significant figures,

(i)

the gravitational force FG of attraction between the mass and the Earth,

FG = .. N
(ii)

the centripetal force FC on the 1.00 kg mass,

FC = .. N
(iii)

the difference in magnitude of the forces.

difference = .. N
[6]
(c) By reference to your answers in (b), suggest, with a reason, a value for the acceleration
of free fall at the Equator.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]

JUNE 2004

A binary star consists of two stars that orbit about a fixed point C, as shown in Fig. 3.1.

R2
C

M2

M1
R1

Fig. 3.1
The star of mass M1 has a circular orbit of radius R1 and the star of mass M2 has a circular
orbit of radius R2. Both stars have the same angular speed , about C.
(a) State the formula, in terms of G, M1, M2, R1, R2 and for
(i)

the gravitational force between the two stars,

...................................................................................................................................

(ii) the centripetal force on the star of mass M1.

...................................................................................................................................
[2]
(b) The stars orbit each other in a time of 1.26 108 s (4.0 years). Calculate the angular
speed for each star.

angular speed = ................................... rad s1 [2]

(c) (i)

Show that the ratio of the masses of the stars is given by the expression
M1
R
= 2.
M2
R1

[2]
(ii)

The ratio

M1
is equal to 3.0 and the separation of the stars is 3.2 1011 m.
M2

Calculate the radii R1 and R2.

R1 = ........................................ m
R2 = ........................................ m
[2]
(d) (i)

By equating the expressions you have given in (a) and using the data calculated in
(b) and (c), determine the mass of one of the stars.

mass of star = ......................................... kg

(ii)

State whether the answer in (i) is for the more massive or for the less massive star.
...................................................................................................................................
[4]

JUNE 2005

The orbit of the Earth, mass 6.0 1024 kg, may be assumed to be a circle of radius
1.5 1011 m with the Sun at its centre, as illustrated in Fig. 1.1.
Earth,
mass 6.0 x 1024 kg
Sun
1.5 x 1011 m

Fig. 1.1
The time taken for one orbit is 3.2 107 s.
(a) Calculate
(i)

the magnitude of the angular velocity of the Earth about the Sun,

angular velocity = ............................... rad s1 [2]

(ii)

the magnitude of the centripetal force acting on the Earth.

force = ....................................... N [2]

(b) (i)

State the origin of the centripetal force calculated in (a)(ii).

...................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................[1]

(ii)

Determine the mass of the Sun.

mass = ..................................... kg [3]

NOVEMBER 2005

The Earth may be considered to be a sphere of radius 6.4 106 m with its mass of
6.0 1024 kg concentrated at its centre.
A satellite of mass 650 kg is to be launched from the Equator and put into geostationary
orbit.
(a) Show that the radius of the geostationary orbit is 4.2 107 m.

[3]
(b) Determine the increase in gravitational potential energy of the satellite during its launch
from the Earths surface to the geostationary orbit.

energy = ... J [4]

(c) Suggest one advantage of launching satellites from the Equator in the direction of
rotation of the Earth.
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[1]

JUNE 2006

The Earth may be considered to be a uniform sphere with its mass M concentrated at its
centre.
A satellite of mass m orbits the Earth such that the radius of the circular orbit is r.
(a) Show that the linear speed v of the satellite is given by the expression
v =

GM
.

[2]
(b) For this satellite, write down expressions, in terms of G, M, m and r, for
(i)

its kinetic energy,

kinetic energy = . [1]

(ii)

its gravitational potential energy,

potential energy = . [1]

(iii)

its total energy.

total energy = . [2]

(c) The total energy of the satellite gradually decreases.

State and explain the effect of this decrease on
(i)

the radius r of the orbit,

...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [2]

(ii)

the linear speed v of the satellite.

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.............................................................................................................................. [2]

JUNE 2007

(a) Explain what is meant by a gravitational field.

..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) A spherical planet has mass M and radius R. The planet may be considered to have all
its mass concentrated at its centre.
A rocket is launched from the surface of the planet such that the rocket moves radially
away from the planet. The rocket engines are stopped when the rocket is at a height R
above the surface of the planet, as shown in Fig. 1.1.

2R

planet

Fig. 1.1
The mass of the rocket, after its engines have been stopped, is m.
(i)

Show that, for the rocket to travel from a height R to a height 2R above the planets
surface, the change EP in the magnitude of the gravitational potential energy of
the rocket is given by the expression
EP =

GMm
.
6R

[2]

(ii)

During the ascent from a height R to a height 2R, the speed of the rocket changes
from 7600 m s1 to 7320 m s1. Show that, in SI units, the change EK in the kinetic
energy of the rocket is given by the expression
EK = (2.09 106)m.

[1]
(c) The planet has a radius of 3.40 106 m.
(i)

Use the expressions in (b) to determine a value for the mass M of the planet.

M = kg [2]
(ii)

State one assumption made in the determination in (i).

..................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................. [1]

NOVEMBER 2008

A spherical planet has mass M and radius R.

The planet may be assumed to be isolated in space and to have its mass concentrated at its
centre.
The planet spins on its axis with angular speed , as illustrated in Fig. 1.1.

mass m

R
equator of
planet
pole of
planet
Fig. 1.1
A small object of mass m rests on the equator of the planet. The surface of the planet exerts
a normal reaction force on the mass.
(a) State formulae, in terms of M, m, R and , for
(i)

the gravitational force between the planet and the object,

.............................................................................................................................. [1]

(ii)

the centripetal force required for circular motion of the small mass,
.............................................................................................................................. [1]

(iii)

the normal reaction exerted by the planet on the mass.

.............................................................................................................................. [1]

(b) (i)

Explain why the normal reaction on the mass will have different values at the
equator and at the poles.
..................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [2]

(ii)

The radius of the planet is 6.4 106 m. It completes one revolution in 8.6 104 s.
Calculate the magnitude of the centripetal acceleration at
1. the equator,

acceleration = .........................................m s2 [2]

2. one of the poles.

acceleration = .........................................m s2 [1]

(c) Suggest two factors that could, in the case of a real planet, cause variations in the
acceleration of free fall at its surface.
1. ......................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
2. ......................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
[2]

JUNE 2009

(a) Define gravitational field strength.

..........................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) A spherical planet has diameter 1.2 104 km. The gravitational field strength at the
surface of the planet is 8.6 N kg1.
The planet may be assumed to be isolated in space and to have its mass concentrated
at its centre.
Calculate the mass of the planet.

mass = .......................................... kg [3]

(c) The gravitational potential at a point X above the surface of the planet in (b) is
5.3 107 J kg1.
For point Y above the surface of the planet, the gravitational potential is
6.8 107 J kg1.
(i)

State, with a reason, whether point X or point Y is nearer to the planet.

..................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................ [2]

(ii)

A rock falls radially from rest towards the planet from one point to the other.
Calculate the final speed of the rock.

speed = ...................................... m s1 [2]

10

NOVEMBER 2009

(a) State Newtons law of gravitation.

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..........................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................... [2]
(b) The Earth may be considered to be a uniform sphere of radius R equal to 6.4 106 m.
A satellite is in a geostationary orbit.
(i)

Describe what is meant by a geostationary orbit.

..................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................ [3]

(ii)

Show that the radius x of the geostationary orbit is given by the expression
gR 2 = x 3 2
where g is the acceleration of free fall at the Earths surface and is the angular
speed of the satellite about the centre of the Earth.

[3]
(iii)

Determine the radius x of the geostationary orbit.

radius = ........................................... m [3]

11

NOVEMBER 2009

(a) The Earth may be considered to be a uniform sphere of radius 6.38 103 km, with its
mass concentrated at its centre.
(i)

Define gravitational field strength.

..................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................ [1]

(ii)

By considering the gravitational field strength at the surface of the Earth, show that
the mass of the Earth is 5.99 1024 kg.

[2]
(b) The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a navigation system that can be used anywhere
on Earth. It uses a number of satellites that orbit the Earth in circular orbits at a distance
of 2.22 104 km above its surface.
(i)

Use data from (a) to calculate the angular speed of a GPS satellite in its orbit.

angular speed = ..................................... rad s1 [3]

(ii)

Use your answer in (i) to show that the satellites are not in geostationary orbits.

[3]
(c) The planes of the orbits of the GPS satellites in (b) are inclined at an angle of 55 to the
Equator.
Suggest why the satellites are not in equatorial orbits.
..........................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................... [1]

12

JUNE 2010

(a) Define gravitational potential at a point.

..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................... [2]
(b) The Earth may be considered to be an isolated sphere of radius R with its mass
concentrated at its centre.
The variation of the gravitational potential with distance x from the centre of the Earth
is shown in Fig. 1.1.
distance x
0

2R

3R

4R

5R

2.0
/ 107 J kg1
4.0

6.0

8.0
Fig. 1.1
The radius R of the Earth is 6.4 106 m.
(i)

By considering the gravitational potential at the Earths surface, determine a value

for the mass of the Earth.

mass = ......................................... kg [3]

(ii)

A meteorite is at rest at infinity. The meteorite travels from infinity towards the
Earth.
Calculate the speed of the meteorite when it is at a distance of 2R above the Earths
surface. Explain your working.

speed = ..................................... m s1 [4]

(iii)

In practice, the Earth is not an isolated sphere because it is orbited by the Moon, as
illustrated in Fig. 1.2.
initial path
of meteorite
Moon

Earth

Fig. 1.2 (not to scale)

The initial path of the meteorite is also shown.
Suggest two changes to the motion of the meteorite caused by the Moon.
1. ..............................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
2. ..............................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
[2]

13

NOVEMBER 2010

(a) Define gravitational field strength.

..........................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) An isolated star has radius R. The mass of the star may be considered to be a point
mass at the centre of the star.
The gravitational field strength at the surface of the star is gs.
On Fig. 1.1, sketch a graph to show the variation of the gravitational field strength of the
star with distance from its centre. You should consider distances in the range R to 4R.
1.0gs
0.8gs
gravitational
field strength 0.6gs
0.4gs
0.2gs
0
R
surface
of star

2R

3R

4R
distance

Fig. 1.1
[2]
(c) The Earth and the Moon may be considered to be spheres that are isolated in space
with their masses concentrated at their centres.
The masses of the Earth and the Moon are 6.00 1024 kg and 7.40 1022 kg
respectively.
The radius of the Earth is RE and the separation of the centres of the Earth and the
Moon is 60 RE, as illustrated in Fig. 1.2.
RE
Moon
mass
7.40 x 1022 kg

Earth
mass
6.00 x 1024 kg

60 RE
Fig. 1.2 (not to scale)

(i)

Explain why there is a point between the Earth and the Moon at which the
gravitational field strength is zero.
..................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [2]

(ii)

Determine the distance, in terms of RE, from the centre of the Earth at which the
gravitational field strength is zero.

distance = ...........................................RE [3]

(iii)

On the axes of Fig. 1.3, sketch a graph to show the variation of the gravitational
field strength with position between the surface of the Earth and the surface of the
Moon.

gravitational
field strength

0
surface
of Earth

surface
of Moon

distance

Fig. 1.3
[3]

14

NOVEMBER 2010

A planet of mass m is in a circular orbit of radius r about the Sun of mass M, as illustrated in
Fig. 1.1.
planet
mass m
Sun
mass M

Fig. 1.1
The magnitude of the angular velocity and the period of revolution of the planet about the
Sun are x and T respectively.
(a) State
(i)

what is meant by angular velocity,

..................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [2]

(ii)

the relation between x and T.

.............................................................................................................................. [1]

(b) Show that, for a planet in a circular orbit of radius r, the period T of the orbit is given by
the expression
T 2 = cr 3
where c is a constant. Explain your working.

[4]

(c) Data for the planets Venus and Neptune are given in Fig. 1.2.
planet

r / 108 km

T / years

Venus
Neptune

1.08
45.0

0.615

Fig. 1.2
Assume that the orbits of both planets are circular.
(i)

Use the expression in (b) to calculate the value of T for Neptune.

T = ....................................... years [2]

(ii)

Determine the linear speed of Venus in its orbit.

speed = ..................................... km s1 [2]

15

JUNE 2011

(a) Newtons law of gravitation applies to point masses.

(i)

State Newtons law of gravitation.

..................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [2]

(ii)

Explain why, although the planets and the Sun are not point masses, the law also
applies to planets orbiting the Sun.
..................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [1]

(b) Gravitational fields and electric fields show certain similarities and certain differences.
State one aspect of gravitational and electric fields where there is
(i)

a similarity,
..................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [1]

(ii)

a difference.
..................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [2]

16

JUNE 2011

(a) State what is meant by a field of force.

..........................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) Gravitational fields and electric fields are two examples of fields of force.
State one similarity and one difference between these two fields of force.
similarity: ..........................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
difference: ........................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
[3]
(c) Two protons are isolated in space. Their centres are separated by a distance R.
Each proton may be considered to be a point mass with point charge.
Determine the magnitude of the ratio
force between protons due to electric field
.
force between protons due to gravitational field

ratio = ............................................... [3]

17

NOVEMBER 2011

(a) A moon is in a circular orbit of radius r about a planet. The angular speed of the moon
in its orbit is . The planet and its moon may be considered to be point masses that are
isolated in space.
Show that r and are related by the expression
r 3 2 = constant.
Explain your working.

[3]
(b) Phobos and Deimos are moons that are in circular orbits about the planet Mars.
Data for Phobos and Deimos are shown in Fig. 1.1.

moon

radius of orbit
/m

Phobos
Deimos

9.39 106
1.99 107
Fig. 1.1

period of rotation
about Mars
/ hours
7.65

(i)

Use data from Fig. 1.1 to determine

1. the mass of Mars,

mass = ............................................ kg [3]

2. the period of Deimos in its orbit about Mars.

period = ...................................... hours [3]

(ii)

The period of rotation of Mars about its axis is 24.6 hours.

Deimos is in an equatorial orbit, orbiting in the same direction as the spin of Mars
about its axis.
Use your answer in (i) to comment on the orbit of Deimos.
..................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [1]

18

JUNE 2012

(a) Define gravitational potential at a point.

..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) The gravitational potential at distance r from point mass M is given by the expression

GM
r

where G is the gravitational constant.

Explain the significance of the negative sign in this expression.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(c) A spherical planet may be assumed to be an isolated point mass with its mass
concentrated at its centre. A small mass m is moving near to, and normal to, the surface
of the planet. The mass moves away from the planet through a short distance h.
State and explain why the change in gravitational potential energy EP of the mass is
given by the expression
EP = mgh
where g is the acceleration of free fall.
..........................................................................................................................................
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..................................................................................................................................... [4]

(d) The planet in (c) has mass M and diameter 6.8 103 km. The product GM for this planet
is 4.3 1013 N m2 kg1.
A rock, initially at rest a long distance from the planet, accelerates towards the planet.
Assuming that the planet has negligible atmosphere, calculate the speed of the rock as
it hits the surface of the planet.

speed = ....................................... m s1 [3]

19

JUNE 2012

(a) State Newtons law of gravitation.

..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................... [2]
(b) The Earth and the Moon may be considered to be isolated in space with their masses
concentrated at their centres.
The orbit of the Moon around the Earth is circular with a radius of 3.84 105 km. The
period of the orbit is 27.3 days.
Show that
(i)

the angular speed of the Moon in its orbit around the Earth is 2.66 106 rad s1,

[1]
(ii)

the mass of the Earth is 6.0 1024 kg.

[2]

(c) The mass of the Moon is 7.4 1022 kg.

(i)

Using data from (b), determine the gravitational force between the Earth and the
Moon.

force = .............................................. N [2]

(ii)

Tidal action on the Earths surface causes the radius of the orbit of the Moon to
increase by 4.0 cm each year.
Use your answer in (i) to determine the change, in one year, of the gravitational
potential energy of the Moon. Explain your working.

energy change = ............................................... J [3]

20

NOVEMBER 2012

(a) State Newtons law of gravitation.

..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................... [2]
(b) A satellite of mass m is in a circular orbit of radius r about a planet of mass M.
For this planet, the product GM is 4.00 1014 N m2 kg1, where G is the gravitational
constant.
The planet may be assumed to be isolated in space.
(i)

By considering the gravitational force on the satellite and the centripetal force,
show that the kinetic energy EK of the satellite is given by the expression
EK =

GMm
.
2r

[2]
(ii)

The satellite has mass 620 kg and is initially in a circular orbit of radius 7.34 106 m,
as illustrated in Fig. 1.1.

initial
orbit
7.34 106 m

7.30 106 m
new orbit

Fig. 1.1 (not to scale)

Resistive forces cause the satellite to move into a new orbit of radius 7.30 106 m.
Determine, for the satellite, the change in
1.

kinetic energy,

change in kinetic energy = ............................................. J [2]

2.

gravitational potential energy.

change in potential energy = ............................................. J [2]

(iii)

Use your answers in (ii) to explain whether the linear speed of the satellite increases,
decreases or remains unchanged when the radius of the orbit decreases.
..................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [2]

21

JUNE 2013

(a) State what is meant by a gravitational field.

..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................... [2]
(b) In the Solar System, the planets may be assumed to be in circular orbits about the Sun.
Data for the radii of the orbits of the Earth and Jupiter about the Sun are given in
Fig. 1.1.
radius of orbit
/ km
1.50 108
7.78 108

Earth
Jupiter

Fig. 1.1
(i)

State Newtons law of gravitation.

..................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [3]

(ii)

Use Newtons law to determine the ratio

gravitational field strength due to the Sun at orbit of Earth
.
gravitational field strength due to the Sun at orbit of Jupiter

ratio = ................................................. [3]

(c) The orbital period of the Earth about the Sun is T.

(i)

Use ideas about circular motion to show that the mass M of the Sun is given by
M=

42R 3
GT 2

where R is the radius of the Earths orbit about the Sun and G is the gravitational
constant.
Explain your working.

[3]
(ii)

The orbital period T of the Earth about the Sun is 3.16 107 s.
The radius of the Earths orbit is given in Fig. 1.1.
Use the expression in (i) to determine the mass of the Sun.

mass = ............................................ kg [2]

22

JUNE 2013

(a) Explain what is meant by a geostationary orbit.

..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [3]
(b) A satellite of mass m is in a circular orbit about a planet.
The mass M of the planet may be considered to be concentrated at its centre.
Show that the radius R of the orbit of the satellite is given by the expression
R3 =

GMT
4
2

where T is the period of the orbit of the satellite and G is the gravitational constant.
Explain your working.

[4]
(c) The Earth has mass 6.0 1024 kg. Use the expression given in (b) to determine the
radius of the geostationary orbit about the Earth.

radius = ............................................. m [3]

1 (a)

work done in bringing/moving unit mass ......................................M1

from infinity to the point.......................................................... ...... A1
(use of 1 kg in the definition max 1/2)

(b)

(c)

potential at infinity defined as being zero........................ ............. B1

forces are always attractive.......................................................... B1
so work got out in moving to point...................... .......................... B1
(max potential is at infinity allow 1/3)
(i)

(ii)

(d)

2 (a)

(b)

(c)

[2]

[3]

= -GM/R
change = 6.67 x 10-11 x 6.0 x 1024 x({6.4 x 106}-1- {1.94 x 107}-1) .....C2
change = 4.19 x 107 J kg-1 (ignore sign) .........................................A1
mv2 = m ................................................................................ C1
v2 = 2 x 4.19 x 107 = 8.38 x 107
v = 9150 m s-1 .............................................................................. A1

[5]

acceleration is not constant.......................................................... B1

[1]

(i)

radial lines.................................................................................... B1
pointing inwards ........................................................................... B1

(ii)

no difference OR lines closer near surface of smaller sphere ...... B1

(i)

FG = GMm/R2.............................................................................. C1
= (6.67 X 10-11 x 5.98 x 1024)/(6380 x 103)2
= 9.80 N ................................................................................. A1

(ii)

FC = mR2 .................................................................................... C1
= 2/T ...................................................................................... C1
FC = (42 x 6380 x 103)/8.64 x 104)2
= 0.0337 N............................................................................... A1

(iii)

FG - FC = 9.77 N............................................................................ A1

[6]

because acceleration (of free fall) is (resultant) force per unit

mass
....................................................................................... B1
acceleration = 9.77 m s-2 .............................................................. B1

[2]

[3]

(a)

(i)
(ii)

(b)

(force) = GM1M2/(R1 + R2)2

(force) = M1R1 2 or M2R2 2

B1
B1

[2]

= 2/(1.26 x 108) or 2/T

C1
A1

[2]

-8

-1

= 4.99 x 10 rad s
allow 2 s.f.: 1.59 x 10-8 scores 1/2
(c)

(i)

(ii)

(d)

(i)
(ii)

reference to either taking moments (about C) or same (centripetal)

force
M1R1 = M2R2 or M1R1 2 = M2R2 2
hence M1/M2 = R2/R1
R2 = 3/4 x 3.2 x 1011 m = 2.4 x 1011 m
R1 = (3.2 x 1011) R2 = 8.0 x 1010 m (allow vice versa)
if values are both wrong but have ratio of four to three, then allow
1/2
M2 = {(R1 + R2)2 x R1 x 2} I G (any subject for equation)
= (3.2 x 1011)2 x 8.0 x 1010 x (4.99 x 10-8)2/(6.67 x 10-11)
= 3.06 x 1029 kg
less massive (only award this mark if reasonable attempt at (i))
(9.17 x 1029 kg for more massive star)
Total

4 (a) (i) angular speed = 2/T

= 2/(3.2 107)
= 1.96 10-7 rad s-1

[2]

C1
C1
A1
B1

[4]

C1
A1

[2]

C1
A1

[2]

(b) (i) gravitation/gravity/gravitational field (strength)

B1

[1]

C1
C1
A1

[3]

(a)

GM / R2 = R2 ........
= 2 / (24 3600) ....
6.67 1011 6.0 1024 = R3 2
R3 = 7.57 1022
R = 4.23 107 m ..

(b)(i) =
=
=
EP =
=
(c)

GM/Re GM/Ro ......

(6.67 1011 6.0 1024) ( 1 / 6.4 106 1 / 4.2 107)
5.31 107 J kg1 .
5.31 107 650 .
3.45 1010 J ..

e.g. satellite will already have some speed in the correct direction

[2]

[12]

(ii) force = mr2 or force = mv2/r and v = r

= 6.0 1024 1.5 1011 (1.96 10-7)2
= 3.46 1022 N

(ii) F = GMm/x2 or GM = r32

3.46 1022 = (6.67 10-11 M 6.0 1024)/(1.5 1011)2
M = 1.95 1030 kg
5

B1
B1
A0
A1
A1

C1
C1
M1
A0

[3]

C1
C1
C1
A1

[4]

B1

[1]

(a) centripetal force is provided by gravitational force

mv2 / r = GMm / r2
hence v = (GM / r)

B1
B1
A0

[2]

(b) (i) EK (= mv2) = GMm / 2r

B1

[1]

(ii) EP = - GMm / r

B1

[1]

(iii) ET = - GMm / r + GMm / 2r

= - GMm / 2r.

C1
A1

[2]

M1
A1

[2]

M1
A1

[2]

(c) (i) if ET decreases then - GMm / 2r becomes more negative

or GMm / 2r becomes larger
so r decreases
(ii) EK = GMm / 2r and r decreases
so (EK and) v increases
7

(a) (region of space) where a mass experiences a force

B1

[1]

(b) (i) potential energy = ()GMm / x

EP = GMm/2R GMm/3R
= GMm/6R

C1
M1
A0

[2]

(ii) EK = m (76002 73202)

= (2.09 106)m

M1
A0

[1]

C1
A1

[2]

B1

[1]

(a) (i) F = GMm / R2

B1

[1]

(ii) F = mR2

B1

[1]

B1

[1]

B1
B1

[2]

(ii) 1. acceleration = 6.4 106 (2 / {8.6 104})2

= 0.034 m s2
2. acceleration = 0

C1
A1
A1

[2]
[1]

(c) e.g. radius of planet varies

density of planet not constant
planet spinning
nearby planets / stars
(any sensible comments, 1 mark each, maximum 2)

B2

[2]

(c) (i) 2.09 106 = (6.67 1011 M)/(6 3.4 106)

M = 6.39 1023 kg
(ii) e.g. no energy dissipated due to friction with atmosphere/air
rocket is outside atmosphere
not influenced by another planet etc.
8

(iii) reaction force = GMm / R2 mR2

(allow e.c.f.)

(b) (i) either value of R in expression R2 varies

or
mR2 no longer parallel to GMm / R2 / normal to surface
becomes smaller as object approaches a pole / is zero at pole

(a) force per unit mass (ratio idea essential)

B1

[1]

(b) g = GM / R2
8.6 (0.6 107)2 = M 6.67 1011
M = 4.6 1024 kg

C1
C1
A1

[3]

(c) (i) either potential decreases as distance from planet decreases

or
potential zero at infinity and X is closer to zero
or
potential 1/r and Y more negative
so point Y is closer to planet.

M1
A1

[2]

(ii) idea of = v2
(6.8 5.3) 107 = v2
v = 5.5 103 ms1

C1
A1

[2]

10 (a) F Mm / R2 ..(words or explained symbols) ................................................M1

either M and m are point masses
or
R >> diameter of masses (do not allow size) ....................................... A1

[2]

(b) (i) equatorial orbit .................................................................................................... B1

period 24 hours / same angular speed ............................................................... B1
from west to east / same direction of rotation ..................................................... B1
(allow one of the last two marks for always overhead if 2nd or 3rd marks not scored)
(ii) gravitational force provides centripetal force
/ gives rise to centripetal acceleration .(in words) ........................................ B1
GM / x2 = x2 ....................................................................................................M1
g = GM / R2 .......................................................................................................M1
to give gR2 = x32 ............................................................................................ A0
(iii) = 2 / (24 3600) = 7.27 10-5 rad s-1 ........................................................ C1
9.81 (6.4 106)2 = x3 (7.27 10-5)2 ............................................................. C1
x3 = 7.6 1022
x = 4.2 107 m ................................................................................................. A1
(use of g = 10 m s-2, loses 1 mark but once only in the Paper)

[3]

[3]

[3]

[Total: 11]

11 (a) (i)

force per (unit) mass (ratio idea essential) ................................................. B1

[1]

(ii) g = GM / R2 ....................................................................................................... C1
9.81 = (6.67 10-11 M) / (6.38 106)2 (all 3 s.f) ......................................M1
M = 5.99 1024 kg ........................................................................................... A0

[2]

(b) (i) either GM = 2r3 or gR2 = 2r3 .................................................................. C1

either 6.67 10-11 x 5.99 1024 = 2 (2.86 107)3
or
9.81 (6.38 106)2 = 2 (2.86 107)3 ............................................... C1
= 1.3 10-4 rad s-1 ......................................................................................... A1
(use of r = 2.22 107m scores max 2 marks)

[3]

(ii) period of orbit = 2 / ....................................................................................... C1

= 4.8 104 s (= 13.4 hours) ....................................................... A1
period for geostationary satellite is 24 hours (= 8.6 104 s) ............................. A1
so no ................................................................................................................... A0

[3]

(c) satellite can then provide cover at Poles ................................................................... B1

[1]

12 (a) work done moving unit mass

from infinity to the point
(b) (i) at R, = 6.3 107 J kg1 (allow 0.1 107)
= GM / R
6.3 107 = (6.67 1011 M) / (6.4 106)
M = 6.0 1024 kg (allow 5.95 6.14)
Maximum of 2/3 for any value chosen for not at R

[Total: 10]
M1
A1 [2]

B1
C1
A1

[3]

(ii) change in potential = 2.1 107 J kg1 (allow 0.1 107)

loss in potential energy = gain in kinetic energy
mv 2 = m or mv 2 = GM / 3R
v 2 = 2.1 107
v = 6.5 103 m s1 ..(allow 6.3 6.6)
(answer 7.9 103 m s1, based on x = 2R, allow max 3 marks)

C1
B1
C1
A1

[4]

(iii) e.g. speed / velocity / acceleration would be greater

deviates / bends from straight path
(any sensible ideas, 1 each, max 2)

B1
B1

[2]

13 (a) force per unit mass

(b) graph:

(ratio idea essential)

correct curvature
from (R,1.0 gS) & at least one other correct point

(c) (i) fields of Earth and Moon are in opposite directions

either resultant field found by subtraction of the field strength
or
any other sensible comment
so there is a point where it is zero
(allow FE = FM for 2 marks)

B1

[1]

M1
A1

[2]

M1
A1
A0

[2]

(ii) GME / x2 = GMM / (D x)2

(6.0 1024) / (7.4 1022) = x2 / (60RE x)2
x = 54 RE

C1
C1
A1

[3]

(iii) graph: g = 0 at least distance to Moon

gE and gM in opposite directions
correct curvature (by eye) and gE > gM at surface

B1
M1
A1

[3]

M1
A1

[2]

B1

[1]

(b) centripetal force is provided by the gravitational force

either mr(2/T)2 = GMm/r 2
or
mr 2 = GMm/r 2
r 3 42 = GM T 2
GM/42 is a constant (c)
T 2 = cr 3

B1
M1
A1
A1
A0

[4]

(c) (i) either T 2 = (45/1.08)3 0.6152

T = 165 years

C1
A1

[2]

C1
A1

[2]

14 (a) (i)

rate of change of angle / angular displacement

swept out by radius

(ii) T = 2

or

T 2 = 0.30 453

(ii) speed = (2 1.08 108) / (0.615 365 24 3600)

= 35 km s1
15 (a) (i)

force proportional to product of masses

force inversely proportional to square of separation

(ii) separation much greater than radius / diameter of Sun / planet

(b) (i) e.g. force or field strength 1 / r 2
potential 1 / r
(ii) e.g. gravitational force (always) attractive
electric force attractive or repulsive

B1
B1

[2]

B1

[1]

B1

[1]

B1
B1

[2]

16 (a) region (of space) where a particle / body experiences a force

(b) similarity: e.g. force 1 / r 2
potential 1 / r
difference: e.g. gravitation force (always) attractive
electric force attractive or repulsive

(c) either ratio is Q1Q2 / 40m1m2G

= (1.6 1019)2 / 4 8.85 1012 (1.67 1027)2 6.67 1011
= 1.2 1036
or
FE = 2.30 1028 R 2 (C1)
FG = 1.86 1064 R 2 (C1)
FE / FG = 1.2 1036
(A1)
17 (a) gravitational force provides the centripetal force
GMm/r 2 = mr2 (must be in terms of )
r 32 = GM and GM is a constant
(b) (i) 1.

2.

for Phobos, = 2/(7.65 3600)

= 2.28 104 rad s1
6 3
(9.39 10 ) (2.28 104)2 = 6.67 1011 M
M = 6.46 1023 kg
(9.39 106)3 (2.28 104)2 = (1.99 107)3 2
= 7.30 105 rad s1
T = 2/ = 2/(7.30 105)
= 8.6 104 s
= 23.6 hours

(ii) either almost geostationary

or
satellite would take a long time to cross the sky

B1

[1]

B1

[1]

B1
B1

[2]

C1
C1
A1

[3]

B1
B1
B1

[3]

C1
C1
A1

[3]

C1
C1

A1

[3]

B1

[1]

18 (a) work done in bringing unit mass from infinity (to the point)
(b) gravitational force is (always) attractive
either as r decreases, object/mass/body does work
or
work is done by masses as they come together
(c) either

or

force on mass = mg (where g is the acceleration of free fall

/gravitational field strength)
g = GM/r2
if r @ h, g is constant
EP = force distance moved
= mgh
EP = m
= GMm(1/r1 1/r2) = GMm(r2 r1)/r1r2
if r2 r1, then (r2 r1) = h and r1r2 = r2
g = GM/r2
EP = mgh

B1
B1
B1

[2]

B1
B1
B1
M1
A0
(C1)
(B1)
(B1)
(B1)
(A0)

[4]

(d) mv2 = m
v2 = 2 GM/r
C1
= (2 4.3 1013) / (3.4 106)
C1
v = 5.0 103 m s1
A1
(Use of diameter instead of radius to give v = 3.6 103 m s1 scores 2 marks)
19 (a) force proportional to product of masses and inversely proportional to
square of separation (do not allow square of distance/radius)
either point masses or separation @ size of masses
(b) (i) = 2 / (27.3 24 3600) or 2 / (2.36 x 106)
= 2.66 106 rad s1

[2]

M1
A0

[1]

or

[2]

C1
A1

[2]

EP = Fx because F constant as x ! radius of orbit

EP = 2.0 1020 4.0 102
= 8.0 1018 J (allow 1 SF)

B1
C1
A1

[3]

EP = GMm/r1 GMm/r2
Correct substitution
8.0 1018 J
(EP = GMm/r1 + GMm/r2 is incorrect physics so 0/3)

C1
B1
A1

(c) (i) grav. force

(ii) either

[3]

M1
A1

(ii) GM = r32 or GM = v2r

C1
M = (3.84 105 103)3 (2.66 106)2 / (6.67 1011)
M1
= 6.0 1024 kg
A0
(special case: uses g = GM/r2 with g = 9.81, r = 6.4 106 scores max 1 mark)
= (6.0 1024) (7.4 1022) (6.67 1011)/(3.84 108)2
= 2.0 1020 N (allow 1 SF)

[1]

20 (a) force is proportional to the product of the masses and

inversely proportional to the square of the separation
either point masses or separation >> size of masses

M1
A1

[2]

B1
M1
A0

[2]

EK = 4.00 1014 620 ({7.30 106}1 {7.34 106}1)

= 9.26 107 J (ignore any sign in answer)
(allow 1.0 108 J if evidence that EK evaluated separately for each r)

C1
A1

[2]

EP = 4.00 1014 620 ({7.30 106}1 {7.34 106}1)

= 1.85 108 J (ignore any sign in answer)
(allow 1.8 or 1.9 108 J)

C1
A1

[2]

M1
A1

[2]

B1
B1

[2]

M1
M1
A1

[3]

C1
C1
A1

[3]

B1
B1
M1
A0

[3]

C1
A1

[2]

(b) (i) gravitational force provides the centripetal force

mv2/r = GMm/r2 and EK = mv2
hence EK = GMm/2r
(ii) 1.

2.

(iii) either (7.30 106)1 (7.34 106)1 or EK is positive / EK increased

speed has increased
21 (a) region of space area / volume
where a mass experiences a force
(b) (i) force proportional to product of two masses
force inversely proportional to the square of their separation
either reference to point masses or separation >> size of masses
(ii) field strength = GM / x2 or field strength 1 / x2
ratio = (7.78 108)2 / (1.5 108)2
= 27
(c) (i) either centripetal force = mR2 and = 2 / T
or
centripetal force = mv2 / R and v = 2R /T
gravitational force provides the centripetal force
either GMm / R2 = mR2 or GMm / R2 = mv2 / R
M = 42R3 / GT2
(allow working to be given in terms of acceleration)
(ii) M

= {42 (1.5 1011)3} / {6.67 1011 (3.16 107)2}

= 2.0 1030 kg

22 (a) equatorial orbit / above equator

B1
satellite moves from west to east / same direction as Earth spins
B1
period is 24 hours / same period as spinning of Earth
B1
(allow 1 mark for appears to be stationary/overhead if none of above marks scored)

[3]

(b) gravitational force provides/is the centripetal force

GMm/R2 = mR2 or GMm/R2 = mv2/R
= 2 /T or v = 2R / T or clear substitution
clear working to give R3 = (GMT2 / 42)

B1
M1
M1
A1

[4]

(c) R3 = 6.67 1011 6.0 1024 (24 3600)2 / 42

= 7.57 1022
R = 4.2 107 m
(missing out 3600 gives 1.8 105 m and scores 2/3 marks)

C1
C1
A1

[3]