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The diagram shows gravitational equipotentials - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 11 - 2021 - Paper 2
Question 11
The diagram shows gravitational equipotentials. Adjacent equipotentials are separated by an equal gravitational potential difference $V'$. Which point has the grea... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows gravitational equipotentials - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 11 - 2021 - Paper 2
Step 1
Which point has the greatest gravitational field strength?
Answer
To determine which point has the greatest gravitational field strength, we need to consider the relationship between gravitational field strength and equipotential lines.
The gravitational field strength is greatest where the equipotential lines are closest together. This is because a larger gradient in gravitational potential indicates a stronger gravitational field. In the provided diagram:
- Point B is located between two closely spaced equipotential lines, implying a stronger field in this region compared to points A, C, or D.
- Points A and C are further away from each other in terms of equipotential spacing, and point D is also further along the equipotential line.
Therefore, the answer is:
B