How Does the Weak Force Compare to Gravity in Strength?

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The weak force is stronger than gravity at short ranges, but its effectiveness diminishes due to the massive W and Z bosons that mediate it. While gravity is the weakest of the fundamental forces, it plays a crucial role in binding the universe together as it lacks an opposing force. The weak interaction operates on both quarks and leptons, unlike the strong force, which does not affect leptons. This distinction highlights the unique roles of these forces in particle interactions. Overall, the comparison between weak force and gravity is complex due to their differing ranges and effects on matter.
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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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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.
 
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.
 
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?
 
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.
 

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