Gravitational Force: Evidence & Distance

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the nature of gravitational force and its behavior over vast distances in the universe. Participants assert that gravitational attraction continues to function on large scales, such as between galaxies, and that mathematical models of gravity can be applied universally. Concerns are raised about the potential for gravitational influence to diminish at extreme distances due to the universe's expansion, particularly if that expansion exceeds the speed of light. The conversation emphasizes the need for further exploration of these concepts to understand the limits of gravitational interaction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation
  • Familiarity with the concept of cosmic expansion
  • Knowledge of the speed of light as a universal constant
  • Basic grasp of gravitational theory and its mathematical models
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of cosmic expansion on gravitational forces
  • Study the relationship between gravity and the speed of light in astrophysics
  • Examine observational evidence of gravitational interactions between distant galaxies
  • Explore advanced gravitational theories, such as General Relativity
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, physicists, and students of cosmology interested in the fundamental principles of gravitational force and its implications across the universe.

Blenton
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How do we know that the force of gravitation continues indefinitely with respect to distance? Is there any evidence to support it? Could it be possible that it works on a large scale, but drops to zero at a certain distance much like other forces eg. strong nuclear?
 
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Hi there,

It could certainly be. Therefore, you would need very, very, very far to see if you ideas could maybe work. Because, we just notice, by looking up in the sky, that the gravitational theroy seems to work even on larger scales, e.g. attraction between galaxies. Therefore, we could suppose that the mathematical model can be applied anywhere in the Universe.

Cheers
 
At some distance 2 objects will no longer feel gravity from each other due to the expanding universe.
That is if gravity travels at the speed of light. Others here can correct me if I am wrong here but at some point wouldn’t the speed of expansion exceed the speed of light. The expansion is cumulative isn’t it?
If we know how much expansion there is in a given distance could we find the distance where the expansion exceeds the speed of light, and is this making any sense to anyone?
I have been pondering this for some time now.
 
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Because, we just notice, by looking up in the sky, that the gravitational theroy seems to work even on larger scales, e.g. attraction between galaxies.

But do we notice the furthest galaxy having an attraction on the furthest galaxy away from that one? Perhaps its only neighbouring galaxies that have any effect on each other.
 

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