What are the similarities and differences between gravitational and electric fields?

Both gravitational and electric field obey inverse square laws (e.g. F(grav)=GMm/r^2 and F(electric)=kq1q2/r^2 where GMm and kq1q2 are constants). They both act between two bodies without any means of contact. However gravitational force acts on mass while the electric force acts on charge. Gravitational force are only attractive while electric field can be attractive/repulsive. Electric field is much stronger than gravitational field.

Answered by Physics tutor

79869 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the minimum frequency of electromagnetic radiation needed for a photon to ionise an atom of sodium? ( An atom of sodium has an ionisation energy of 5.15 eV.)


A ball is released from stationary at a great height. Explain how the forces acting on it change before it hits the ground and how these forces affect the velocity of the ball.


In one second a mass of 210 kg of air enters at A. The speed of this mass of air increases by 570 m s–1 as it passes through the engine. Calculate the force that the air exerts on the engine.


The radius of the Earth is 6,400km and has a mass of 6x10^24kg. Calculate the minimum velocity needed by a projectile, fired from the surface of the Earth in order to escape the Earths gravity.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences