3.7.1.1
A gravitational field is always attractive and has infinite range
Gravitational Fields & Orbits — AQA A-Level Physics
Key Definition
Gravitational field — A region of space where a mass experiences a force due to the gravitational attraction of another mass.
- There is a universal force of attraction between all matter with mass.
- The direction of a gravitational fieldA region of space in which a mass experiences a gravitational force. is always towards the centre of the mass creating it.
- Gravitational forces are always attractive. They cannot be repulsive.
- Gravity has infinite range. It affects all objects in the universe, though the force decreases with distance.
- Larger masses create stronger gravitational fields. The field around an atom is negligible.
Common Mistake
MEDIUM
Students often: Don't say gravity only acts on nearby objects or has a limited range.
Instead: Gravity has infinite range. It weakens with distance (inverse square law) but never reaches exactly zero.
Instead: Gravity has infinite range. It weakens with distance (inverse square law) but never reaches exactly zero.