Explore the Gravity Force Lab
Drag two masses and change their size to see how the gravity force depends on mass and distance. Free, no signup, runs in your browser.
- Free to use
- No signup
- Nothing to install
- Runs in your browser
See it in action
The Gravity Force Lab with sample data entered and the result showing.
What is the Gravity Force Lab?
Drag two masses and change their size to see how the gravity force depends on mass and distance. It runs in your browser, so a change to a setting or a drag on an object shows up at once.
The same law explains tides, satellites orbits and the shape of galaxies.
3 steps to your result
Open the tool and follow along. Nothing to install.
What you get
F = G m₁ m₂ / r².
Doubling a mass doubles the force.
Doubling the distance makes the force four times smaller.
Move the masses twice as far apart.
Make one mass ten times bigger.
Compare the two force arrows.
Used for
Pick one to see how it fits.
Physics learners
Physics students in middle school, high school and first-year university, teachers who want a quick demonstration for the projector, and anyone revising for exams.
Try it freeTeachers
For teachers: project the Gravity Force Lab on the board, let students predict the result, then run it together and test this: Make one mass ten times bigger. For students: change one thing at a time and write down what changes.
Try it freeHow it compares
A plain look at this tool next to the usual alternative.
| This simulation | Textbook diagram | |
|---|---|---|
| Interactive | Drag, tap and change settings | Fixed picture |
| Install | Nothing to install | Not needed |
| Cost | Free to use | Depends on the book |
Questions people ask
What is the inverse square law?
The force is proportional to 1 divided by the distance squared.
Why do we not feel the gravity of everyday objects?
G is extremely small, so the force between small masses is tiny.
Is the Gravity Force Lab free to use?
Yes. The Gravity Force Lab is free, needs no signup or download and runs in your web browser. It is part of the Physics group of AZRS simulations.
Does the Gravity Force Lab work on a phone or tablet?
Yes. The Gravity Force Lab takes touch input as well as mouse input, so you can use its 13 adjustable settings with a finger. A larger screen makes the controls and graphs easier to read.
How do I use the Gravity Force Lab?
1. In the Gravity Force Lab, use the controls to change Scenario, Mass 1, Mass 2, Separation, Force arrows, and more. The simulation reacts instantly. 2. In the Gravity Force Lab, pick an option such as Two balls (kg, m), Earth & Moon, Sun & Earth, Log scale to switch modes or load an example. 3. In the Gravity Force Lab, press "Reset" to start, reset or change what is happening. 4. Start with this experiment: Move the masses twice as far apart. Drag any glowing handle, object or slider with your mouse or finger and the Gravity Force Lab responds in real time. 5. Change one setting at a time and watch which readout moves, then compare it with this idea: F = G m₁ m₂ / r².
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Try the Gravity Force Lab now
Drag two masses and change their size to see how the gravity force depends on mass and. Free to use.
Try it free