Action-at-a-distance force
Definition
An action-at-a-distance force is a force exerted by an object on another object that is not in physical contact with it, acting over a distance through space. Examples include gravitational, electromagnetic, and nuclear forces.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Gravitational force is a prime example of an action-at-a-distance force.
- Einstein's Theory of General Relativity describes gravity not as a force but as the curvature of spacetime caused by mass and energy.
- Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation mathematically expresses gravitational force as $F = G \frac{m_1 m_2}{r^2}$.
- Action-at-a-distance forces can act through the vacuum of space without any physical medium.
- The concept contrasts with contact forces, which require physical interaction between objects.
Review Questions
- What is an example of an action-at-a-distance force?
- How does Einstein's Theory of General Relativity describe gravitational interactions differently from Newton's theory?
- Why are action-at-a-distance forces able to act through a vacuum?
"Action-at-a-distance force" appears in:
Related terms
Gravitational Force: A type of action-at-a-distance force where two masses attract each other with a force proportional to their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.
General Relativity: Einstein's theory describing gravity as the warping of spacetime by mass and energy, replacing the concept of gravitational force.
Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation: $F = G \frac{m_1 m_2}{r^2}$; it quantifies the gravitational attraction between two masses.
