PSAT Math Multiple-Choice Question 810: Answer and Explanation

Question: 810

In the equation below, F stands for gravitational force, m₁ and m₂ stand for the masses of two different objects, G is a constant, and d stands for the distance between the two objects. (Note that mass and distance must have positive values.)

What would most minimize the gravitational force between objects 1 and 2?

• A. Minimize d
• B. Maximize m₁ and m₂
• C. Minimize m₁ × m₂ and maximize d
• D. Maximize d, m₁ , and m₂

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) To minimize the overall gravitational force, the value of the numerator should be as small as possible and the value of the denominator should be as large as possible. Out of the possible answers, choice (C), would best accomplish this. It would make the value of m₁ × m² as small as possible and make the denominator d² as large as possible.