Problem 9-56 Vector Gravitational Field - cos 72 (sin 18)

A spaceprobe is at the position shown in the figure. Use components to determine the gravitational acceleration (magnitude and direction) of the probe due to the effects of the earth and moon. The masses of the earth and moon are \(6.0 \times10^{24}\; kg\) and \(7.4 \times 10^{22} \; kg\), respectively.

Diagram of space probe.

Accumulated Solution

Diagram of space probe.

\(g = GM/r^2\)

Correct.

Is the magnitude of the \(y\) component of \(g_m\) given by:

\(\cos\; 72 \; (\sin \;18)\)
or
\(\sin\; 72\;  (\cos\; 18)\)