The inverse-square law of force and its spatial energy distribution

Abstract

Using generalised mathematical considerations to inverse-square law of force is shown to imply specific spatial energy distributions relative to the interacting bodies. The retardation effects associated with energy redeployment when the bodies are in motion are examined. It is found that, as applied to the gravitational interaction between sun and planet and provided there is no discontinuity in the spatial energy distribution, retardation will give a law of motion conforming with Einstein’s law of gravitation. A necessary condition is that the energy in transit in the field system is ineffective in determining force for a retardation period equal to the time required for a photon to travel from one body to the field and then return from the field to the other body. The implication is that gravitation could be a quantum interaction which assures causality and balance of action and reaction by this dual photon exchange interaction. © 1980 The Institute of Physics.