To determine the gravitational field strength at a point in space where a mass experiences a gravitational force, we can use the relationship between gravitational force, mass, and gravitational field strength. ### Step-by-Step Explanation 1. **Understanding Gravitational Force**: The gravitational force (\( F \)) acting on an object is given by the formula: \[ F = m \cdot g \] where: - \( F \) is the gravitational force (in Newtons, N), - \( m \) is the mass of the object (in kilograms, kg), - \( g \) is the gravitational field strength (in Newtons per kilogram, N/kg). 2. **Identifying Given Values**: In this problem, we are given: - The mass (\( m \)) = 2 kg, - The gravitational force (\( F \)) = 10 N. 3. **Rearranging the Formula**: We need to find the gravitational field strength (\( g \)). We can rearrange the formula to solve for \( g \): \[ g = \frac{F}{m} \] 4. **Substituting the Values**: Now, we substitute the known values into the rearranged formula: \[ g = \frac{10 \, \text{N}}{2 \, \text{kg}} = 5 \, \text{N/kg} \] 5. **Final Answer**: Therefore, the gravitational field strength at that point in space is **5 N/kg**. ### Evaluating the Options Now, let's evaluate the provided options: - **Option A: 5 N/kg** - This is the correct answer based on our calculation. - **Option B: 10 N/kg** - This option is incorrect. It represents the gravitational force experienced by the mass, not the gravitational field strength. - **Option C: 2 N/kg** - This option is incorrect. It does not correspond to any calculation based on the given values. - **Option D: 20 N/kg** - This option is also incorrect. It does not relate to the values provided and is not a result of any calculation based on the given mass and force. ### Common Pitfalls - **Confusing Force with Field Strength**: A common mistake is to confuse the gravitational force with the gravitational field strength. Remember, the force is what the mass experiences, while the field strength is a property of the gravitational field itself. - **Incorrectly Rearranging the Formula**: Ensure that when rearranging formulas, you maintain the correct relationships between the variables. ### Revision Summary - Gravitational field strength (\( g \)) is calculated using the formula \( g = \frac{F}{m} \). - In this case, with \( F = 10 \, \text{N} \) and \( m = 2 \, \text{kg} \), we find \( g = 5 \, \text{N/kg} \). - The correct answer is **A: 5 N/kg**. - Always differentiate between gravitational force and gravitational field strength to avoid confusion.