Exploring the Relationship between Gravity and the Weak Force

In summary, the weak force is difficult to compare to gravity as it only applies over short ranges and is not actually as weak as its name suggests. Gravity may be the weakest force, but it is what binds the universe together due to its lack of opposing force. The strong force and weak force do not oppose each other, but the weak force acts between both quarks and leptons while the strong force does not act between leptons.
  • #1
captain
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gravity and weak force

is it possible to compare the strength of weak force to gravity and if so how is weak force stronger than gravity?
 
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  • #2
Difficult to compare because the weak force only applies over very short ranges (because the W+Z carriers are so massive ) so you would have to say at what range you are comparing them.
ps It's not actually that weak, it holds charged +ve protons next to each other, it's named more to compare with the strong force.
 
  • #3
One thing that seems a bit confusing at times is that gravity, while being the weakest of all known forces, is what binds the universe together. That's because it's also the only force that doesn't have an opposing force.
 
  • #4
Danger said:
One thing that seems a bit confusing at times is that gravity, while being the weakest of all known forces, is what binds the universe together. That's because it's also the only force that doesn't have an opposing force.

do strong and weak force oppose each other?
 
  • #5
captain said:
do strong and weak force oppose each other?

The weak interaction acts between both quarks and leptons, whereas the strong force does not act between leptons. "Leptons have no color, so they do not participate in the strong interactions; neutrinos have no charge, so they experience no electromagnetic forces; but all of them join in the weak interactions."(Griffiths)

I think they all pivot around the weak force besides gravity, depending on the particle.
 

1. What is gravity?

Gravity is a fundamental force that exists between all objects with mass. It is responsible for the attraction between objects and is the reason why objects fall towards the Earth.

2. How does gravity work?

Gravity works by the curvature of space and time caused by massive objects. This curvature creates a force that pulls objects towards each other.

3. What is the weak force?

The weak force is one of the four fundamental forces of nature. It is responsible for certain types of radioactive decay and plays a role in the fusion reactions that power the sun.

4. How is the weak force different from gravity?

The weak force is much weaker than gravity and only acts over very short distances. It is also responsible for the behavior of subatomic particles, while gravity is a force that acts on all objects with mass.

5. What are some real-life applications of the weak force?

The weak force is essential for many technological applications, including nuclear power and medical imaging techniques like PET scans. It also plays a role in the formation of elements in the universe and the behavior of particles in particle accelerators.

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