If `W_(1), W_(2) and W_(3)` represent the work done in moving a particle from A to B along three different paths 1, 2 and 3 respectively (as shown) in a gravitational field of point mass m, then

Options

A. `W_(1)=W_(2)=W_(3)`
B. `W_(1) gt W_(2) gt W_(3)`
C. `W_(11) lt W_(2) lt W_(3)`
D. `W_(1) lt W_(3) lt W_(2)`

Answer

D

Explanation

Energy required = Increase in Gravitational potential energy
`= -(GMm)/(3R)+(GMm)/(2R)=(GMm)/(6R)`
Correct choice is (d).