Gravitational Constant

Definition

The gravitational constant, denoted by G, is a fundamental physical constant that represents the strength of the gravitational force between two objects.

Analogy

Think of the gravitational constant as the "glue" that holds the universe together. Just like glue keeps things stuck together, the gravitational constant determines how strong the pull of gravity is between any two objects in space.

Related terms

Inverse-Square Relationship: This term refers to the relationship between the distance separating two objects and the strength of their gravitational attraction. As distance increases, gravity weakens exponentially.

Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation: This law states that every particle attracts every other particle with a force directly proportional to their masses and inversely proportional to the square of their distances.

Force of Gravity: This term refers to the attractive force between two objects due to their masses. It is determined by both mass and distance according to Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation.