# Explain the similarities and differences between gravitational fields and electric fields.

> AQA A-Level Physics (7408) — 3.7.1 Fields · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Both gravitational and electric fields are regions where a force acts on an object
2. Gravitational fields act on objects with mass / electric fields act on charged objects
3. Gravitational forces are always attractive, whereas electric forces can be attractive or repulsive
4. Both fields can act at a distance / both are non-contact forces
5. Both fields can be represented by field lines showing the direction and strength of the field (closer lines = stronger field)

## Key terms

- [gravitational field](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/gravitational-field)
- [electric field](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/electric-field)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Physics (7408)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-the-similarities-and-differences-between-baf9e5d8) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.