Proving Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation

In summary, F is directly proportional to the product of m1 and m2 and inversely proportional to the square of r. This can be expressed as F=km1m2/r^2, where k is the proportionality constant. Despite the variations in the constants, they are all linked by Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation. This is evident in the equations F = (k1)(m1)(m2) and F = (k2)/r^2, where k1 and k2 are constants determined by G, m1, m2, and r. These equations are different but consistent with F = G(m1)(m2)/r^2.
  • #1
abcd8989
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Given F is directly proportional to the product of m1 and m2. F is also inversely proportional to the r^2. F, m1, m2 and r are real numbers.
Why we can link the above two variations together and say that F=km1m2/r^2, where k is the proportionality constant? Aren't the the variations independent? How to prove that variations can be linked like that?
(This question is essentially Newton's Law of Universial Gravitation.)
 
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  • #2
When you write F = (k1)(m1)(m2) where 'k1' is a constant, you are assuming that you keep everything else constant and only may vary the masses.
What if I define k1 = G/r^2, where G is a constant and r is a constant?

If you write F = (k2)/r^2 where 'k2' is a constant, you are assuming you may vary the radius whilst keeping everything else constant.
What if I define k2 = G(m1)(m2), where G is a constant and m1, m2 are constant?

These two equations are both consistent with F = G(m1)(m2)/r^2
 

1. What is Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation?

Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation states that every object in the universe attracts every other object with a force that is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

2. How did Newton prove this law?

Newton used mathematical equations and observations of planetary motion to prove his law. He also relied on the work of scientists such as Galileo and Kepler to develop his theory.

3. Can Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation be proved experimentally?

Yes, Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation can be proved experimentally by measuring the force of attraction between two objects with known masses and distances. This can be done using a torsion balance or a Cavendish balance.

4. Are there any exceptions to Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation?

Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation is a fundamental law of physics and is accurate in most cases. However, it does not hold true for objects moving at very high speeds or for objects with extremely large masses, such as black holes.

5. How does Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation relate to Einstein's theory of relativity?

Einstein's theory of relativity expanded on Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation by incorporating concepts of space and time. It also provides a more accurate understanding of how gravity works in extreme conditions, such as near massive objects or at very high speeds.

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