Three identical masses can be arranged in one of two configurations: • Configuration…
PHYSICS · Subjective · A Level · Physics · Fields and their consequences · Fields and their consequences
Problem
Three identical masses m can be arranged in one of two configurations:
• Configuration 1: each mass is located at a vertex of an equilateral triangle of side length L.
• Configuration 2: the three masses lie in a straight line with adjacent masses separated by distance L.
Which configuration has the lower (more negative) total gravitational potential energy? State "1" or "2" and briefly justify your choice with a calculation or expression.