Chapter 6.1, Problem 2R

To determine

To compare and contrast: Electric force and gravitational force.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Gravitational force is the force of attraction between any two objects with mass.

Electrical force is the force of attraction between any two charged objects.

Similarities between electrical force and gravitational force are as follows:

1. Both electrical force and gravitational force act between two bodies without any contact.
2. Both electrical force and gravitational force are examples of conservative force. (Work done depends upon the initial and final positions)

Differences between electrical force and gravitational force are as follows:

1. Electrical force is much stronger than gravitational force.
2. Electrical force is the force between two charges while gravitational force is the force between two objects with mass.
3. Electrical force is either attractive or repulsive depending upon the charge on the two objects while gravitational force is always attractive.

Conclusion:

The electric forces between protons and electrons holds the atoms together. The moon revolves around the Earth on its orbit due to gravitational force.