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

86474 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A pendulum of mass m is released from height h with a speed v at the bottom of its swing. a) What is the gravitational potential energy at height h and the kinetic energy at the bottom of its swing? b) Use conservation of energy to define the speed v.


A wire has length l, cross-sectional area a, resistivity p and resistance R. It is compressed to a third of its original length but its volume and resistivity are constant. Show its new resistance is R/9.


A light wave with wavelength 590nm shines upon a metal and causes it to emit an electron with a speed of 5x10^5 m/s. What is the work function of the metal?


What is the difference between linearly, directly and inversely proportional relationships?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning