Gravitation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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gravitation
[หษกravษชหteษชสษn ]
Definition
physics
The force of attraction between two masses. It is responsible for keeping planets in orbit around the sun and objects on the Earth's surface.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gravitation |
Scientific and formal discussions. Usually used when referring to the scientific study of the force that pulls objects toward one another.
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| attraction |
Refers to the strong pull or appeal of something towards another, which can be used in various contexts including physical forces or emotional and social contexts.
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| gravity |
Everyday language and scientific contexts. Commonly used to refer to the force that keeps us grounded on Earth, and also to describe the seriousness of a situation.
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Examples of usage
- Isaac Newton formulated the laws of gravitation.
- Gravitation is what keeps us from floating off into space.
- The concept of gravitation has been studied for centuries.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term comes from the Latin word 'gravitas', meaning weight or seriousness, highlighting the force's significance.
- Isaac Newton first formulated the law of universal gravitation in the 17th century, explaining how bodies attract each other.
- In the 20th century, Albert Einstein redefined the concept with his theory of general relativity, describing gravity as the curvature of space-time.
Science
- Every object with mass exerts a gravitational force, which means even small objects like a pencil have gravity, albeit very tiny.
- The gravitational pull of the moon is responsible for Earth's tides, showcasing how gravitational forces can affect large bodies of water.
- Black holes have such strong gravity that not even light can escape them, demonstrating extreme cases of this force.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Gravity' highlight the challenges and mysteries of space and gravity, captivating audiences with stunning visuals.
- In comic books, characters like Superman defy gravity with superpowers, playing with the concept in fictional narratives.
- Gravity is often used as a metaphor in songs and literature, symbolizing emotional pull or connection between people.
Education
- Understanding gravitation is fundamental in physics classes, serving as a gateway to learning about forces and motion.
- Experiments like dropping different objects to see which hits the ground first help students grasp gravitational principles.
- Simulations and games in educational technology often involve gravitation scenarios to engage students in a fun, interactive way.
Philosophy
- The concept raises philosophical questions about the nature of reality, influencing discussions about free will and determinism.
- Some philosophers use gravity as a metaphor for unseen forces shaping human relationships and societal structures.
- Debates about the balance between gravity and levity often explore serious vs. light-hearted approaches to existence.
Origin of 'gravitation'
The word 'gravitation' originated from the Latin word 'gravitas', meaning weight or heaviness. The concept of gravitation has been studied and developed over centuries, with significant contributions from scientists like Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein. Newton's law of universal gravitation, formulated in the 17th century, laid the foundation for our understanding of gravity and its effects on celestial bodies. Einstein's theory of general relativity further revolutionized our understanding of gravitation in the 20th century. Today, gravitation remains a fundamental force in physics, governing the motion of objects in the universe.