Gravitational force general question

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SUMMARY

Gravitational force acts between any two masses, such as m1 and m2, regardless of their alignment on Earth. This force is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction, as described by Newton's law of universal gravitation. While gravitational force typically points towards the center of the Earth, it also exists between smaller masses, although the effect is negligible due to their relatively small size compared to the Earth. Understanding that all mass generates gravity clarifies the confusion regarding the direction and presence of gravitational forces between objects.

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  • Newton's law of universal gravitation
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  • Understanding of gravitational interactions
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Miike012
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say two bodies on Earth are aligned a distance r from one another with masses m1 and m2.
Do they have a gravitational force that points to each other that are equal and opp direction...

please look at my picture ..
 

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I am confused because I thought gravitational force was a force that always pointed down or towards the center of the earth...?
 
Miike012 said:
I am confused because I thought gravitational force was a force that always pointed down or towards the center of the earth...?

No. All mass generates gravity. The boxes have mass, therefore gravity. You and I have mass and therefore generate gravity. For these though, it's just very, very tiny.

Here on Earth, the largest mass we commonly encounter is the Earth's, most other thing we encounter directly are too small for their gravity to be felt.
 
Thank you
 

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