Gravitational force between everyday objects

In summary, the gravitational force between everyday objects is extremely weak and is usually overshadowed by other forces. This is why we do not see objects attracting each other in our daily lives. However, experiments like the one done by Cavendish use extremely sensitive measurements to detect this weak force. Even on a near frictionless surface, the force of gravity is not strong enough to cause objects to attract each other, as seen with two coffee mugs on ice.
  • #1
quantizedzeus
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Gravitational force between everyday objects...

I know It's a common question...but i could not find satisfactory answer...the question is "if every objects are attracting each others then why don't we see the daily objects attracting each others...?? Then how could Cavendish make his experiment...??...
 
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  • #2


The gravitational force is extremely weak. As such, other forces usually completely overwhelm the gravitational force between everyday objects.

Just think, you have the entire Earth pulling down on you, and yet it is still relatively easy to jump and walk around.

Cavendish used extremely sensitive measurements to do his experiments.

See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cavendish_experiment
 
  • #3


Like Matterwave said, the force of gravity is extremely weak for objects with masses near ourselves and everyday objects. If they entire mass of the Earth only pulls us down at 9.8 m/s^2, an object a few billion times less massive or more wouldn't be noticeable at all.
 
  • #4


even on a near frictionless surface like ice, two 1000 kg wouldn't make it to each other because the force of static friction is more then gravity can overcome. Thats why you don't see two coffee mugs sliding towards each other in your kitchen
 
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  • #5


Oh...thanks everyone..this is what i wanted to know ...
 

FAQ: Gravitational force between everyday objects

1. What is gravitational force?

Gravitational force is a natural phenomenon by which all objects with mass are brought towards each other. It is one of the four fundamental forces of nature alongside strong and weak nuclear forces and electromagnetism.

2. How does gravitational force affect everyday objects?

Gravitational force affects everyday objects by pulling them towards the Earth's center. This is what keeps us on the ground and objects from floating away into space.

3. How is the strength of gravitational force between two objects determined?

The strength of gravitational force between two objects is determined by their masses and the distance between them. The greater the mass and the closer the distance, the stronger the gravitational force.

4. Can gravitational force be observed and measured?

Yes, gravitational force can be observed and measured using instruments such as a scale or a gravimeter. These tools can measure the force between two objects due to their masses.

5. How does the distance between two objects affect gravitational force?

The distance between two objects has a direct effect on gravitational force. As the distance between two objects increases, the gravitational force between them decreases. This is known as the inverse-square law of gravitational force.

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