Question

Two astronauts are floating in gravitational free space after having lost contact with their spaceship. The two will:

• A. Keep floating at the same distance between them
• B. Move towards each other
• C. Move away from each other
• D. Will become stationary

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The question involves understanding the nature of gravitational interaction between two astronauts in an environment free of external forces, such as space. Let's analyze each option step by step:

1. Keep floating at the same distance between them: In the absence of any external forces, the only significant force acting on the astronauts would be their mutual gravitational attraction. Therefore, they will not maintain the same distance indefinitely.
2. Move towards each other: Gravity is a mutual force of attraction between masses. Each astronaut exerts a gravitational force on the other, causing them to accelerate towards each other. This is the correct explanation of their motion in the absence of other forces.
3. Move away from each other: Since there are no repulsive forces acting between the astronauts, they will not move apart. This option is incorrect.
4. Will become stationary: Becoming stationary requires an external opposing force. In a gravitationally free environment, with their mutual gravitational attraction, they will continue moving towards each other rather than stopping.

Based on this reasoning, the correct answer is that the two astronauts will move towards each other due to their mutual gravitational attraction.

In conclusion, the behavior of objects in space is often counterintuitive due to the lack of external forces. Here, even though the gravitational forces are very small because of their minimal mass, over time, these forces are sufficient for the astronauts to move towards each other.