(Solved): Gravitation by a uniform rod A particle \( P \), of mass \( m \), and a uniform rod, of length \( ...

Gravitation by a uniform rod A particle \( P \), of mass \( m \), and a uniform rod, of length \( 2 a \) and mass \( M \), are placed as shown in Figure 3.5. Find the gravitational force that the rod exerts on the particle. FIGURE 3.5 A particle \( P \), of mass \( m \), is attracted by a uniform rod of length \( 2 a \) and mass \( M \). The resultant force \( \boldsymbol{F} \) on \( P \) points towards the centre \( O \) of the rod.