Origin of the Gravitational Force

The gravitational force is extremely important because it dominates the formation and evolution of the universe. However, its physical origin and intrinsic nature have not been clearly comprehended for a long time. Certain observed phenomena, along with the newly discovered by the Hubble and James Webb telescopes, cannot be explained well by current theories. Furthermore, general relativity and quantum mechanics, which are mainstream theories explaining the gravitational force, are incompatible. This situation strongly points to the need for a better or novel theory of the gravitational force. Here, based on classical space-time view, a different but solid understanding of the gravitational force is introduced. The author has realized that the gravitational force originates from none other than the electric force and is the synthetic electric force produced by a large number of electric charges. Generally speaking, in most objects, there are a large number of free and potentially induced electric charges. Due to various reasons, including unavoidable fluctuations of microscopic particles, non-uniform charge distribution in the object is normal. Earth is typically such an example. The non-uniform charge distribution within an object will almost certainly turn that object into an electric dipole. Thus, almost any object can be regarded as an electric dipole, resulting in any two objects attracting each other. This is the true origin of the gravitational force. This understanding can solve or explain confusing problems or phenomena simply and effectively, such as dark matter, dark energy, flat galaxy and filamentary nebula. This understanding also naturally unifies the gravitational and electromagnetic forces.