Definition

1. Noun:
   • A fundamental physical constant: The "universal gravitational constant" is a fixed numerical value that appears in Newton's law of universal gravitation. It quantifies the strength of the gravitational force between two objects.
   • The proportionality constant in Newton's law: It is the constant 'G' that relates the gravitational force between two bodies to the product of their masses and the inverse square of the distance between their centers.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The value of the universal gravitational constant is extremely small.
  • Calculating the force between planets requires the use of the universal gravitational constant.
  • Scientists have worked to measure the universal gravitational constant with great precision.

Advanced Usage

• "To determine the universal gravitational constant": Refers to the experimental process of measuring its value.
  • The Cavendish experiment was designed to determine the universal gravitational constant.
• In equations: It is almost exclusively represented by the symbol 'G'.
  • The formula F = G * (m1m2)/r² contains the universal gravitational constant.*

Variants and Related Words

• Gravitational constant (n): A common shortened form for "universal gravitational constant".
  • The gravitational constant is a key part of Einstein's field equations.
• Constant of gravitation (n): Another synonymous term.
• Newton's constant (n): A name reflecting its origin in Newton's law.

Synonyms

• G: The standard symbol used in physics.
• Cavendish's constant: A historical name referencing Henry Cavendish, who performed an early measurement.

Related Phrases

• Law of universal gravitation: The physical law in which the constant is used.
• Big G: An informal name used to distinguish it from 'g' (acceleration due to gravity).

Noun

1. (physics) the universal constant relating force to mass and distance in Newton's law of gravitation