The Axisymmetric Central Configurations of the Four-Body Problem with Three Equal Masses

Abstract

In the studied axisymmetric case of the central four-body problem, the axis of symmetry is defined by two unequal-mass bodies, while the other two bodies are situated symmetrically with respect to this axis and have equal masses. Here, we consider a special case of the problem and assume that three of the masses are equal. Using a recently found analytical solution of the general case, we formulate the equations of condition for three equal masses analytically and solve them numerically. A complete description of the problem is given by providing both the coordinates and masses of the bodies. We show furthermore how the three-equal-mass solutions are related to the general case in the coordinate space. The physical aspects of the configurations are also studied and discussed.