lolgarithms said:Why can there be no gravity in 2 spatial dimensions (and 1 temporal dimension)?
The inverse-law theory is a fundamental principle in physics that states that the force between two objects is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. In simpler terms, as the distance between two objects increases, the force of gravity between them decreases.
In two dimensions, gravity still follows the inverse-law theory. However, instead of being pulled towards the center of the Earth, objects are pulled towards the center of mass of the two-dimensional system. This means that the force of gravity is always directed towards the center of the system, regardless of the position of the objects.
The inverse-law theory is used in numerous fields such as astronomy, engineering, and space exploration. It helps us understand the motion of objects in space, predict the trajectories of satellites and planets, and design structures that can withstand the force of gravity.
Yes, the inverse-law theory can be applied to non-spherical objects as long as the objects' mass is concentrated at their center of mass. This is because the distance between the objects is measured from their center of mass to the center of mass of the system.
While the inverse-law theory is generally accurate, it does have some limitations. It does not take into account factors such as the rotation and composition of objects, as well as the effects of other forces such as air resistance. In extreme conditions, such as near black holes, the inverse-law theory may also break down.