lectures

The Shape of Gravity: Why On Earth Are Planets Spherical?

Gresham College

March 3

Event linkcalender

We often take for granted that planets, shaped by the force of gravity, are spherical. However, a closer look reveals that the Earth is not a perfect sphere—it is slightly squashed. But is it squashed like a pumpkin or more like a peanut? And is the sphere truly the only possible shape for a planet? As planets grow larger and must sustain increasingly extreme forces, can we still assume they maintain a spherical shape? These seemingly simple questions have fascinated scientists and mathematicians since the time of Newton, giving rise to profound mathematical theories that deepen our understanding of the universe.