WHAT is the reason gravity SHOULD be stronger than maganetism?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the comparative strength of gravity and magnetism, specifically exploring why gravity is perceived to be weaker than electromagnetic forces. Participants delve into the implications of this perceived weakness and its relation to scientific inquiries into gravity and other dimensions.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the use of the term "SHOULD" in relation to gravity's strength compared to electromagnetism, noting that gravity is indeed much weaker than electromagnetic forces.
  • Another participant argues that gravity's always-attractive nature means it cannot be canceled out like electromagnetic forces, which can lead to a more persistent effect over long distances.
  • A participant expresses confusion regarding the original request, seeking clarification on why some scientists perceive gravity as having a "weakness" that prompts them to explore its nature beyond Earth.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the strength of gravity relative to magnetism, with some asserting gravity's weakness while others highlight its unique characteristics. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the reasons behind the scientific interest in gravity's nature.

stellamojo
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What is the reason gravity should be stronger than magnetism. I heard a speaker talk about what prompted scientists to look for other dimensions, and it was because they were looking for the drain on gravity, but what is it about gravity that makes it appear that it SHOULD be stronger than magnetism?
 
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I am not sure what you mean by SHOULD. Gravity is a lot weaker than electromagnetism and scientists wonder why, but not necessarily stronger than e-m.
 
Because Gravity is always attractive, there are no circumstances, as with the electromagnetic forces, where you can get cancellation - so it just goes on and on and on. Its effect is far reaching whereas electromagnetic forces soon get lost.
 
Thank YOU, sophiecentaur, that is EXACTLY what I was looking for.
 
middling, I'm not sure how what you're saying relates to my request. I thought it was a simple request, but obviously it was worded in a way that caused some ruffled feathers. I simply wanted to know WHY some scientists were compelled to find gravity elsewhere in the universe, because of how gravity is on this planet. I wanted to know why some scientists have a problem with what they perceive to be a "weakness" in gravity. That's all.
 

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