We continue to use Newtonian gravitation in our daily lives for several reasons, despite the fact that Einstein's theory of general relativity provides a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of gravity. Here are a few factors that contribute to the continued use of Newtonian gravitation:
Simplicity and Practicality: Newton's law of universal gravitation, formulated in the late 17th century, provides a simple and mathematically tractable model for understanding gravity. It is often sufficient for many everyday situations and calculations, such as determining the motion of objects on Earth or within the solar system. The calculations involved in Newtonian gravity are typically easier to handle than those in general relativity, making it more practical for many applications.
Scale and Precision: General relativity becomes particularly relevant when dealing with extremely massive objects or in situations where high precision is required. In our everyday lives, the effects of general relativity are usually negligible. Newtonian gravity provides accurate predictions for most situations we encounter, such as throwing a ball or driving a car. For such cases, the additional complexity of general relativity is unnecessary and can be safely ignored.
Computational Efficiency: General relativity involves complex mathematical equations and calculations that can be computationally intensive. While modern computers and numerical techniques have made solving these equations more feasible, it can still be time-consuming and resource-intensive compared to the relatively simple calculations of Newtonian gravity. In many practical applications, the computational efficiency of Newtonian gravity makes it more suitable.
Consistency with Limiting Cases: The predictions of general relativity converge to those of Newtonian gravity under certain conditions. When objects and velocities involved are relatively small, the effects of general relativity become negligible, and Newtonian gravity provides accurate results. Therefore, in the regime where Newtonian gravity is applicable, it serves as a useful approximation.
It's important to note that in certain domains, such as astrophysics, space exploration, and high-precision measurements, general relativity is essential for accurate predictions. Technologies like Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation, which relies on precise timekeeping, need to account for the effects of general relativity. However, for many everyday situations, the simplicity, practicality, and sufficient accuracy of Newtonian gravity make it a widely used and accepted model.