What is the gravitational force of attraction between a planet and a 17-kilogram mass that is falling freely toward the surface of the planet at 8.8 meters per second squared? a. 150 Nb. 8.8 Nc. 1.9 Nd. 0.52 N

a. 150 N

Explanation:

Gravitational Force: This is the force that act on a body under gravity.

The gravitational force always attract every object on or near the earth's surface. The earth therefore, exerts an attractive force on every object on or near it.

The S. I unit of gravitational force is Newton (N).

Mathematically, gravitational force of attraction is expressed as

(i) F = GmM/r² ... Equation 1 (when it involves two object of different masses on the earth)

(ii) F = mg ... Equation 2 (when it involves one mass and the gravitational field).

Given: m = 17 kg, g = 8.8 m/s²

Substituting into equation 2,

F = 17 (8.8)

F = 149.6 N

F ≈ 150 N.

Thus the gravitational force = 150 N

The correct option is a. 150 N