What is a similarity between magnetism and gravity?

• A. Both require contact.
• B. Both are non-contact forces.
• C. Both depend on electric charge.
• D. Both are only present in space.

Answer: (B)

Non-contact forces: both magnetism and gravity can influence objects without touching them, through fields that extend through space. Gravity is the attraction between masses, acting at a distance and guiding the orbits of planets and the fall of objects on Earth. Magnetism arises from moving electric charges and magnetic material, creating magnetic fields that pull or push on magnets and magnetic materials without contact. This distance-based influence is what links the two.

That’s why the best answer says they are non-contact forces. They don’t require contact to exert their effects. The idea that they both require contact isn’t accurate, and gravity doesn’t depend on electric charge while magnetism is related to moving charges rather than static charge alone. Also, these forces aren’t limited to space; gravity exists everywhere, and magnetism is present on Earth as well.