Two-body problem
contributor: AAS Frey.Katie
modified: 2020-11-19T16:45:50.315Z
modified: 2020-11-19T16:45:59.508Z
broader: Gravitational interaction
broader: Celestial mechanics
definition: In classical mechanics, the study concerned with the dynamics of an isolated system of two particles subject only to the Newtonian gravitational force between them. The problem can be separated into two single-particle problems with the following solutions. The equation of the center of mass is governed by the equation of the same form as that for a single particle. Moreover, the motion of either particle, with respect to the other as origin, is the same as the motion with respect to a fixed origin of a single particle of reduced mass acted on by the same internal force.
alternative label: Two body problem
type: Concept

Gravitational interaction
type: Concept
narrower: Two-body problem

Celestial mechanics
type: Concept
narrower: Two-body problem