What is the Difference Between Gravity and Gravitation?

Gravity and gravitation are related concepts in physics, but they have distinct meanings. The main differences between them are:

1. Definition: Gravity refers to the force of attraction that exists between the Earth and other objects, while gravitation is the attractive force existing between any two objects with mass.
2. Scope: Gravity is the specific force that occurs between the Earth and other objects, such as the force that causes objects to fall towards the Earth's surface. Gravitation, on the other hand, is the more general phenomenon that causes all masses to attract each other.
3. Direction: The gravitational force acting between two objects can be either attractive or repulsive, depending on the direction of movement. In contrast, the force of gravity is always attractive, as it pulls objects towards the Earth.
4. Universal vs. Specific: Gravitation is considered a universal force, as it acts between all objects with mass. In contrast, gravity is a specific force that occurs between an object and the Earth, and it is not considered a universal force.

In summary, gravitation and gravity are related but distinct concepts. Gravitation is the broader phenomenon that causes all masses to attract each other, while gravity is the specific force that occurs between the Earth and other objects.

Comparative Table: Gravity vs Gravitation

Here is a table that highlights the differences between gravity and gravitation:

Gravitation is the universal force of attraction between all objects with mass, while gravity specifically refers to the gravitational force acting between an object and the Earth's surface. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they have distinct differences in the context of their definitions and the forces they represent.