Mass 1 is at the origin, Mass 2 is at x = −2.00 mm, and Mass 3 is at x = 3.00 mm. Mass 1 has a mass of 1.00 kg, Mass 2 has a mass of 1.50 kg, and Mass 3 has a mass of 2.00 kg. What is the net gravitational force acting on Mass 1?

First, we ignore Mass 3 and only consider the interaction between Mass 1 and Mass 2. Mass 2 will attract Mass 1 with a force directed in the negative x-direction. Mass 1 also attracts Mass 2, but we ignore this force because we are calculating the net force on Mass 1. Calculate the magnitude of the force (in N) that Mass 2 exerts on Mass 1.

Mass 3 exerts an attractive force on Mass 1 directed in the positive x-direction. Now, ignore Mass 2 and calculate the magnitude of the force (in N) that Mass 3 exerts on Mass 1.

To find the net force on Mass 1, we must combine the two forces. These forces are in opposite directions, and the larger force points in the negative x-direction. This means that the next force will point in the negative x-direction as well. What is the magnitude of the net force (in N) acting on Mass 1?