Why do objects with mass attract each other?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the fundamental nature of gravity and why objects with mass attract each other. Participants highlight the distinction between understanding the mechanisms of forces, such as the strong nuclear force that binds protons, and the more abstract concept of gravitational attraction. The conversation emphasizes the lack of a deeper explanatory framework for gravity compared to other forces, leading to questions about the nature of gravitational force itself.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fundamental forces in physics, including the strong nuclear force and gravitational force.
  • Basic knowledge of mass and its role in physical interactions.
  • Familiarity with Newton's law of universal gravitation.
  • Conceptual grasp of force transmission in physics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore Einstein's General Theory of Relativity to understand gravity as a curvature of spacetime.
  • Study the differences between classical mechanics and quantum mechanics regarding force interactions.
  • Investigate the role of gravitational waves in modern physics.
  • Learn about the implications of mass-energy equivalence in gravitational interactions.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of gravitational force and its comparison with other forces in nature.

Yan_Dalton
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In most cases, we know why things happen. Protons can stick with each other because of the strong nuclear force. There's all kinds of forces and we know mostly about why they occur and how they are transmitted.

But I don't understand gravity. Why do objects with mass attract each other ? I know how to calculate it, but I can't seem to understand how it works.
 
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If you're satisfied with the explanation, "Protons can stick with each other because of the strong nuclear force,", why are you not satisfied with the explanation, "Two massive objects attract one another because of the gravitational force." What's the difference between these two explanations?
 
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