A "Double Satellite" Is Launched into Space

question 46

Multiple Choice

A "double satellite" is launched into space. It consists of a satellite of mass m and another satellite of mass 5m. The connecting mechanism of these satellites is an explosive bolt and a compressed spring, both of negligible mass. The bolt is exploded and the satellites drift apart having been pushed by the spring. When the less massive satellite has moved a distance of 2.5 m from the center of mass of the double satellite, how far away from it is the satellite of greater mass?

• A) 3.0 m
• B) 12 m
• C) 0.10 m
• D) 0.50 m