Expert: Sherry Wallin - 3/9/2009

Question
Hi! I need help with this Algebra problem...I think the answer is 2, The weight
is divided by 2, but I am unsure. Can you help? Thank you in advance!


Problem:
The weight of a body above the surface of the earth is inversely proportional
to the square distance from the water of the earth. What is the effect on the
weight when the distance is multiplied by 2?

Answer:
1) The weight is multiplied by 4
2) The weight is divided by 2
3) The weight is divided by 4
4) The weight is multiplied by 2

Answer
Bee~
   "y varies inversely as x or y is inversely proportional to x" can be translated into y = k/x, k a constant. So if the weight of a body...is inversely proportional to the square distance from ... let weight be w and d the distance we have w = k/d^2 thus when you multiply the distance by 2 you now have w = k/2d^2, so yes you are correct the weight is divided by 2. I hope my explanation was helpful.

Math Prof