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Is gravity a force?

GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer

This uestion has two answers depending on your physics framework. In Newtonian physics, yes gravity is absolutely a force that attracts objects with mass. In Einstein's general relativity, no gravity isn't a force but rather the curvature of spacetime caused by mass and energy. Objects follow the straightest possible paths through this curved spacetime, creating what we perceive as gravitational attraction. For everyday applications and most calculations, treating gravity as a force (F = mg) works perfectly. Einstein's framework is necessary for extreme conditions like near black holes or for GPS satellites, where spacetime curvature significantly affects measurements.

General · Class 12