Two identical planets of mass M are separated by a distance d. A small satellite of mass m is placed exactly midway between them. What is the magnitude of the net gravitational force on the satellite?

Core Concept

The gravitational force from each planet on the satellite is F = GMm/(d/2)² = 4GMm/d². Since the planets are identical and the satellite is midway, the forces are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction, resulting in a net force of zero. Option A is incorrect as it represents the force from one planet, not the net force. Option B is incorrect as it's double the force from one planet. Option C is incorrect as it's the force if the distance were d rather than d/2.