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Why Do We Need Gravity?

Published in Physics 2 mins read

We need gravity because it's the fundamental force that holds our universe together, enabling life as we know it.

Gravity is essential for a multitude of reasons, ranging from the cosmic scale to our everyday experiences. Without it, the universe, our solar system, and ultimately, life on Earth would be impossible.

The Role of Gravity

Here's a breakdown of why gravity is crucial:

  • Orbits and Celestial Mechanics: The sun's gravity is responsible for keeping the Earth (and all other planets) in orbit. This orbit ensures we receive a consistent amount of sunlight and warmth, creating habitable conditions. Without gravity, the Earth would drift away, likely becoming a frozen and desolate world.

  • Atmosphere Retention: Gravity holds down our atmosphere, preventing it from escaping into space. Our atmosphere provides the air we breathe and protects us from harmful radiation from the sun.

  • Structure of Planets and Stars: Gravity is the force that initially pulled together the matter that forms planets and stars. It continues to hold these celestial bodies in their spherical shapes.

  • Holding Our World Together: On a more immediate level, gravity is what keeps us on the ground. Without it, we would float away, and everything else not anchored would do the same. Gravity gives us weight and allows us to interact with our environment in a meaningful way.

In short, gravity is a fundamental requirement for our existence. From keeping Earth in orbit around the sun to holding the very air we breathe, its influence is pervasive and indispensable.

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