Is there any proof that gravity is an attractive force?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of LeSage gravity, which suggests that gravity is not an attractive force but rather a universal force of expansion and pressure. However, this theory has been disproven by experiments and does not match observations. The conversation ends by acknowledging that the idea has been considered but ultimately rejected.
  • #1
Cubbie Boy
Is gravity an attractive force of matter, or is it a universal force of expansion and pressure that exists in apparently empty space? Does matter attract objects near it, or does matter merely block gravity pressure on on any given side of a material body, giving the illusion that the matter itself is producing gravity?
 
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  • #3
Thanks for the reply. Interesting link, but a bit long, and beyond my ability to understand.
 
  • #4
OK, the bottom line is that the idea has been considered, but doesn't match observations.
 
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Likes CalcNerd
  • #5
And with that, the thread is closed.
 

1. What is gravity and how does it work?

Gravity is a fundamental force of nature that causes objects with mass to be attracted to each other. It is often described as the force that pulls objects towards the center of the Earth. According to Einstein's theory of general relativity, gravity is the result of objects bending the fabric of space-time.

2. Is there any scientific proof that gravity is an attractive force?

Yes, there is overwhelming evidence from various experiments and observations that support the idea of gravity being an attractive force. For example, the orbits of planets around the Sun, the motion of celestial bodies, and the behavior of objects in free fall all demonstrate the attractive nature of gravity.

3. Can gravity be explained by other forces?

No, gravity is a unique force that cannot be explained by any other known force. While other forces, such as electromagnetism and the strong and weak nuclear forces, can also cause objects to attract or repel each other, they do not act in the same way as gravity and cannot fully account for its effects.

4. How is the strength of gravity determined?

The strength of gravity between two objects is determined by their masses and the distance between them. The greater the mass of the objects and the closer they are to each other, the stronger the gravitational force between them. This relationship is described by Newton's law of universal gravitation.

5. Is there any evidence that gravity can be repulsive?

No, there is currently no evidence to suggest that gravity can be repulsive. All observations and experiments indicate that gravity is an attractive force. However, some theories, such as string theory, propose the existence of repulsive gravity, but this has not been proven or observed yet.

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