What is the force of attraction between objects due to their masses called?

Study for the Science PSSA Test. Use quizzes and flashcards, complete with hints and explanations. Prepare to ace your exam!

The force of attraction between objects due to their masses is known as gravity. This fundamental force is what causes objects with mass to be drawn toward one another. For example, gravity is the reason why objects fall to the ground when dropped and why planets orbit around stars. It is dependent on the mass of both objects involved and the distance between them; larger masses exert a stronger gravitational pull, and the farther apart the objects are, the weaker the force of gravity between them.

In contrast, the other terms listed refer to different concepts. Friction involves the resistance encountered when two surfaces move against each other. Weight is a measure of the gravitational force acting on an object; it is directly proportional to gravity but does not define the force itself. Pressure is the force exerted per unit area but is not related to the attraction between masses. Thus, gravity is the correct identification of the force that describes this interaction.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy