Definition

1. Noun:
   • The theory of universal gravitation: "Gravitational theory" is the physical theory that describes the attractive force, gravity, which exists between any two objects that have mass. It states that this force is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between their centers.

Usage

• Noun:
  • Newton's gravitational theory revolutionized our understanding of the solar system.
  • Modern gravitational theory, including Einstein's general relativity, builds upon classical concepts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The apple falling from the tree is a classic illustration of gravitational theory.
  • Calculating the orbit of a satellite requires an application of gravitational theory.

Advanced Usage

• "within the framework of Newtonian gravitational theory": used to specify the classical, non-relativistic formulation of the theory.
  • Planetary motion can be accurately predicted within the framework of Newtonian gravitational theory.

Variants and Related Words

• Theory of gravitation: A synonymous phrase for gravitational theory.
  • The theory of gravitation is a cornerstone of physics.
• Law of universal gravitation: Often refers specifically to Newton's mathematical formulation within the broader theory.
  • Newton's law of universal gravitation is expressed by the formula F = G(m1m2)/r².

Synonyms

• Theory of universal gravitation: The full name for the theory.
• Newton's law of gravitation: Specifically refers to Isaac Newton's formulation.

Related Phrases

• Gravitational constant (G): The proportionality constant in the law of universal gravitation.
  • The value of the gravitational constant is fundamental to gravitational theory.
• Gravitational field: A concept describing the region of space around a mass where its gravitational force can be felt, a key concept in modern gravitational theory.
  • Einstein's theory describes gravity as a curvature of spacetime, not as a force field in the Newtonian sense.

Noun

1. (physics) the theory that any two particles of matter attract one another with a force directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them