universal graviation components

[Sarahisme]

hey just a quick question....

 

if i have to

 

Write down an expression for the x and y components of the gravitational force on an object (1) of mass M1 by an object of mass M2 when object 1 is at a position (x1,y1) and object 2 is at position (x2,y2).

 

is it correct to say

[Sarahisme]

just checking for the x component to start with or should there be a cos theta in there somewhere?

[swansont]

Yes, you'll need some trig to break down the vector into its components. Sin or cos, depending on how you define your coordinate system.

[Sarahisme]

k thanks