Question

How does Newton's third law apply to gravitational force?

Answer 1

See explanation below

Explanation:

According to Newton's third law, For every action there is always an equal & opposite reaction

The gravitational force `F_G` of attraction between any two point masses `m_1` & `m_2` separated by a distance `d` is given as

`F_G=\frac{Gm_1m_2}{d^2}`

The above formula shows that mass `m_1` attracts mass `m_2` with a force `F_G` hence as a reaction it also experience the equal & opposite gravitation force `F_G` exerted by mass `m_2`

Hence Newton's third law is applicable to gravitational force