Why do objects with mass attract each other?

In summary, the conversation discusses various forces and their explanations, with a particular focus on gravity. While we have a good understanding of most forces and their mechanisms, gravity remains a mystery for some. The difference between the strong nuclear force, which explains why protons can stick together, and the gravitational force, which explains why objects with mass attract each other, is not fully understood.
  • #1
Yan_Dalton
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In most cases, we know why things happen. Protons can stick with each other because of the strong nuclear force. There's all kinds of forces and we know mostly about why they occur and how they are transmitted.

But I don't understand gravity. Why do objects with mass attract each other ? I know how to calculate it, but I can't seem to understand how it works.
 
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  • #2
If you're satisfied with the explanation, "Protons can stick with each other because of the strong nuclear force,", why are you not satisfied with the explanation, "Two massive objects attract one another because of the gravitational force." What's the difference between these two explanations?
 
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Related to Why do objects with mass attract each other?

1. What is gravity?

Gravity is a fundamental force of nature that causes objects with mass to attract each other. It is responsible for keeping planets in orbit around the sun, and objects on Earth from floating off into space.

2. Why do objects with mass attract each other?

This is due to the curvature of space-time caused by the presence of mass. The more massive an object is, the greater its gravitational pull.

3. How does gravity work?

Gravity works through the exchange of particles called gravitons. These particles are exchanged between two objects with mass, causing them to attract each other.

4. Does the distance between objects affect the strength of gravity?

Yes, the strength of gravity decreases as the distance between two objects increases. This is described by the inverse square law, which states that the force of gravity is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between two objects.

5. Can gravity be explained by any theories or equations?

Yes, gravity is explained by Einstein's theory of general relativity, which describes gravity as the curvature of space-time caused by the presence of mass. This theory is supported by various equations, such as Newton's law of universal gravitation and the Einstein field equations.

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