Question

Two bodies of masses `m_1` and `m_2` are initially at rest at infinite distance apart. They are then allowed to move towards each other under mutual gravitational attraction. Their relative velocity of approach at a separation distance `r` between them is.
A. `[2G((m_(1)-m_(2)))/r]^(1//2)`
B. `[(2G)/r (m_(1)-m_(2))]^(1//2)`
C. `[r/(2G(m_(1)m_(2)))]^(1//2)`
D. `[(2G)/rm_(1)m_(2)]^(1//2)`

Answer 1

Correct Answer - B
`1/2muv^(2)=(Gm_(1)m_(2))/r`,
`mu=((m_(1)+m_(2))/(m_(1)+m))`: reduced mass
`1/2(m_(1)m_(2))/(m_(1)+m_(2))v^(2)=(Gm_(1)m_(2))/r`
`v=sqrt((2G(m_(1)+m_(2)))/r)`