Question

The \(\ldots \ldots \ldots \ldots \ldots\) force is the force of mutual attraction between any two objects by virtue of their masses. (a) Weak (b) Electromagnetic (c) Nuclear (d) Gravitational

Short answer

The force of mutual attraction between any two objects by virtue of their masses is the \( (d) \) Gravitational force.

Step-by-step solution

Step -1: Analyze the Weak force

The weak force is one of the four fundamental forces of nature. It is responsible for processes such as nuclear decay and neutrino interactions. However, it does not have any significant role in the attraction between objects due to their masses.

Step -2: Analyze the Electromagnetic force

The electromagnetic force is also one of the four fundamental forces of nature. It deals with the interaction between charged particles and the resulting force from these interactions, including electric and magnetic fields. It does not govern the attraction between objects due to their masses.

Step -3: Analyze the Nuclear force

The nuclear force is the force that holds atomic nuclei together, ensuring that protons and neutrons stay within the nucleus. This force plays an important role in the stability of atomic nuclei but does not have any significant role in the interaction between objects based on their masses.

Step -4: Analyze the Gravitational force

The gravitational force is another fundamental force of nature, responsible for the attraction between any two objects with mass. According to Newton's law of universal gravitation, every point mass attracts every other point mass by a force acting along the line intersecting both points. This force is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. Given the analysis of each force, the correct answer to the question is:

Step -5: Choose the correct answer

The force of mutual attraction between any two objects by virtue of their masses is the (d) Gravitational force.

Key concepts

Fundamental Forces in Nature

Our universe operates through four main fundamental forces: gravitational, electromagnetic, weak, and nuclear forces. Each of these forces has a unique role and affects how particles and objects interact. Gravitational force is the weakest among them, yet it influences massive bodies like planets and stars.
It governs the orbits of celestial bodies and keeps us grounded on Earth.

• Gravitational Force: This force is responsible for the attraction between masses, making it pivotal in the formation and motion of galaxies and solar systems.
• Electromagnetic Force: Responsible for interactions between charged particles, such as electrons and protons.
• Weak Force: Plays a crucial role in nuclear decay processes.
• Nuclear Force: Keeps atomic nuclei intact by holding protons and neutrons together.

Through these forces, the universe remains structured and dynamic. Each force's role is essential for different processes in nature, balancing stability and change.

Mutual Attraction Explained

Mutual attraction refers to the force that acts between two objects due to their mass. This is a fundamental idea in physics and underlies many phenomena in our universe. The gravitational force creates this mutual pull, ensuring that we stay attached to the Earth and that celestial bodies interact harmoniously.
The force of mutual attraction depends on two factors:

• Mass of the Objects: Greater mass results in a stronger gravitational pull.
• Distance Between the Objects: As the distance increases, the attraction decreases rapidly.

Observing planets orbiting stars or moons orbiting planets are examples of this force in action. It keeps galaxies in shape and anchors everything from moons to dust particles in the cosmic landscape.

Understanding Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation

Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation provides the mathematical framework for understanding gravitational force. According to this law, every point mass attracts every other point mass with a force that acts along the line joining them. This exerted force has specific characteristics:
The magnitude of the gravitational force is expressed with the formula:
\[ F = G \frac{{m_1 \cdot m_2}}{{r^2}} \] Where:

• \( F \) is the gravitational force.
• \( G \) is the gravitational constant.
• \( m_1 \) and \( m_2 \) are the masses involved.
• \( r \) is the distance between the centers of the two masses.

Newton's insights allow us to calculate gravitational interactions in various contexts, from falling apples to orbiting satellites, understanding the predictable nature of gravitation in our universe.

Mass Interaction and Its Implications

Mass interaction underpins the concept of gravitational force, intertwined deeply with how objects influence each other due to their inherent mass. This interaction doesn't involve physical contact but rather a field imposing pull over distances.
Key implications of mass interaction include:

• Orbits: Planets and satellites follow specific paths due to interactions between their masses and that of larger bodies, like the sun or Earth.
• Tidal Effects: The gravitational pull from the moon affects Earth's tides, showcasing mass interaction's real-world impact.
• Structural Formation: Mass interactions contribute to the formation and stability of cosmic structures like galaxies and star systems.

The understanding of mass interaction is crucial for both practical applications, like space missions, and theoretical insights into the universe's fabric, influencing both everyday experiences and scientific explorations.