The universal law of gravitation states that the force between two masses is directly proportional to: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Newton's law of gravitation: F = G·m₁m₂/r². Thus force is directly proportional to the product of the masses (m₁m₂) and inversely proportional to square of distance (r²). Option D incorrectly states 'directly proportional to square of distance' – it's inverse square. This fundamental law governs celestial mechanics. Memory tip: 'F ∝ m₁m₂ and F ∝ 1/r²'. Competitive exams often test precise wording of physical laws; distractors may reverse proportionality or misstate dependencies. Always recall the exact mathematical form.