Difference Between Magnetism and Gravity

Magnetism vs Gravity

Magnetism and gravity are not similar concepts. These two concepts or terms are totally different from one another. Although both are considered forces, they are two different forces with different properties and characteristics.

First of all, gravity, as a distinct force, acts between on two objects no matter what their compositions are. As long as the objects have mass, gravitational forces will act between them. Any two objects, as long as they have mass, will be pulled towards each other if there is gravity or gravitational force.

In contrast, magnetism primarily depends on the specific properties of the object. The force of magnetism has two directions. It can pull objects together or it can also pull them away from each other. The behavior of magnetism is also influenced by the alignment of electrons inside the objects. This is not the case with gravity and gravitational force.

With gravity, all objects with mass are sensitive to its force. With magnetism, only few objects are sensitive to its force. In fact, the majority of objects on earth are insensitive to magnetism. While all objects on earth are affected by gravity. To visualize this phenomenon, if an object is not sensitive to gravitational force, then it will be ejected from earth all the way to outer space.

Gravity is unique to heavenly bodies. Stars, planets, and satellites have different levels of gravitational forces. Meanwhile, magnetism is naturally occurring to some ferrous objects or materials. And only few magnetic materials are ferrous objects.

There is a big difference between magnetism and gravity. You should not mistake these concepts as one and the same. Gravity affects all objects no matter what their compositions and properties are. Even plastics and wood can be affected by the force of gravity. On the other hand, magnetism only affects specific objects. Some objects are insensitive to magnetism while others are highly sensitive to the force of magnetism.