
gravitational field
A gravitational field is an invisible area around a mass, like a planet or star, in which the object experiences a force pulling it toward that mass. It’s how gravity extends through space, influencing the motion of objects, such as planets orbiting the sun or objects falling to Earth. Think of it as a way the mass communicates its pull across space—qualities that depend on the mass’s size and distance. Larger masses create stronger fields, resulting in a greater pull, which is responsible for keeping celestial bodies in orbit and causing objects to fall.