Question
The two stars in a double-star system circle one another gravitationally, with period $P$. If they are suddenly stopped in their orbits and allowed to fall together, show that they will collide after a time $P / 4 \sqrt{2}$.
Step 1
The two stars are in circular orbits around their common center of mass with period \( P \). The gravitational force provides the necessary centripetal force for this motion. Show more…
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