Question

Please help!

Why can gravitational field lines never cross?

Thank you!

Answer 1

Imagine they do, and look at the consequences.

Answer 2

Is it because at the point where they cross, the pull on the mass could be in either direction?

Thank you!

Answer 3

Yes, you're right! How could a field have two values at one point?

It happens though, that field lines cross at singular points: in that case, the field is zero at that point.

Answer 4

Thank you so much for your help!