---
title: "Gravitation — AP Physics C Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Gravitation is the attractive force between masses, F = GMm/r². On AP Physics C Mechanics it powers orbit problems, escape velocity, and Kepler's laws."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-physics-c-mechanics/key-terms/gravitation"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Physics C: Mechanics"
---

# Gravitation — AP Physics C Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Gravitation refers to the natural phenomenon by which all objects with mass or energy attract each other with a force proportional to their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

## Related Study Guides

- [AP Physics C: Mechanics Exam Guide](/ap-physics-c-mechanics/unit-XFAHq6btBZc5gQPX/2024-ap-physics-c-mechanics-exam-guide/study-guide/noMpjoQ3vOhzWeMth8ML)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Universal Law of Gravitation: The universal law of gravitation states that every particle in the universe attracts every other particle with a force directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.
- Kepler's Laws: Johannes Kepler formulated three laws that describe planetary motion under gravitational influence. These laws provide insights into how objects move in elliptical orbits around a central mass.
- [Escape Velocity](/ap-physics-c-mechanics/key-terms/escape-velocity): Escape velocity is the minimum velocity an object needs to escape from the gravitational pull of another celestial body. It depends on both the mass and radius of the body.