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How to think about gravity - Jon Bergmann

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Did you know that when you fall down, the earth falls up to meet you? Explore the counterintuitive equation that describes gravity.

Additional Resources for you to Explore

Gravity and magnetism follow the inverse square law. Do some research on the inverse square law and which other physical phenomena follow the inverse square law.

The force of gravity depends on three key factors: the mass of the larger object, the mass of the smaller object, and the distance between their two geometric centers. To learn the details of this relationship and how they work as a formula, check out this link.

And if you're still not convinced that gravity is important, click here (don't worry, clicking the link won't make you float away).

Using the universal law of gravitation, determine the force of gravity between a typical person and the Earth. Do research to find the appropriate constants and values.

Here is a video showing an experiment conducted on the moon. It's the famous Hammer and Feather experiment devised by Galileo.

About Space Ed

Space Ed helps you untangle the mysteries of space with the universe’s best videos on everything from Einstein's theory of relativity to what it would take to live on Mars. Brush up on the science, philosophy and mystery of space, because the fabric of the universe is the same fabric that connects us all.

Meet The Creators

  • Animator Franz Palomares
  • Narrator Jon Bergmann
  • Artist Alan Foreman, Celeste Lai
  • Producer TED-Ed
  • Director Biljana Labović
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