Problem 9-56 Vector Gravitational Field

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.


We must choose a coordinate system for the problem. Which is best?

Three possible coordinate systems A, B, C.

(A)

(B)

(C)