New question dealing with Newton's theory

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In summary, Newton's theory of "electrical spirit" explained attraction at a distance, but not repulsion, which is now explained through the exchange of photons.
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Homework Statement


To explain the attraction which a rubbed rod of amber exerted on small objects which were some distance away from it, Newton suggested that there was an invisible substance in the amber which he called "electrical spirit". When the rod was rubbed, this electrical spirit was disturbed and stretched out into the area around the rod. When the electrical spirit contracted again, it pulled with it any small objects that happened in its path.

A. What explanation is used today to explain how electrical forces are able to act upon objects at a distance?

B. Newton's theory explained electrical attraction at a distance. What kind of electrical phenomena at a distance did it fail to explain? How does the modern explanation you stated in part A account for this second kind of action at a distance?

I don't understand these questions at all and really need help on them. Thanks to anyone who can help me.

Joanne



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A. Today, it is understood that electrical forces are able to act upon objects at a distance through the exchange of photons, or particles of light. These photons carry the electrical energy and can travel over long distances. B. Newton's theory failed to explain electrical repulsion at a distance, in which two objects with the same electric charge will repel each other. The modern explanation for this phenomenon is that the exchange of photons can also cause repulsion between objects of the same charge. Photons emitted by one object will be reflected off the surface of the other object, pushing the two objects away from each other.
 

What is Newton's theory?

Newton's theory, also known as Newton's laws of motion, is a set of three physical laws that describe the motion of objects in the universe. These laws form the basis of classical mechanics and are still used today to understand and predict the behavior of objects in motion.

What are the three laws of motion in Newton's theory?

The three laws of motion in Newton's theory are: 1) An object at rest will remain at rest and an object in motion will continue in a straight line at a constant velocity unless acted upon by an external force. 2) The force acting on an object is equal to its mass multiplied by its acceleration (F=ma). 3) For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

How did Newton come up with his theory?

Isaac Newton developed his theory of motion in the 17th century after observing the motion of objects and studying the work of previous scientists. He published his laws of motion in his famous book "Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica" in 1687.

What is the significance of Newton's theory?

Newton's theory is significant because it provided a fundamental understanding of the laws governing the motion of objects in the universe. It also laid the foundation for future scientific discoveries and technological advancements, such as space travel and modern engineering.

Are there any limitations to Newton's theory?

While Newton's theory is highly accurate for objects moving at everyday speeds, it has limitations when applied to objects moving at high speeds or in extreme conditions, such as near the speed of light or in the presence of strong gravitational fields. These limitations were later addressed by Albert Einstein's theory of relativity.

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