Chapter 5, Problem 24Q

To determine

To explain: The procedure for estimating the Pluto’s mass.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction :

The centripetal acceleration of a man depends upon the mass of its planet and its distance from planet.

The centripetal acceleration of moon can be given as,

  $a_c=\frac{GM}{r^2}$

Where,

M is mass of planet.

r is distance from planet to moon.

So, by knowing the centripetal acceleration and the distance of planet from moon, mass of planet

can be estimated.