Did you know Sir Isaac Newton was 23 when he discovered the law of gravity

The discovery of gravity by Isaac Newton is a fascinating story, but there's some nuance to consider:

• The Apple Story: The famous tale of Newton and the falling apple likely wasn't the "discovery" moment, but rather a trigger for his contemplation.
• Years of Development: Newton's law of universal gravitation wasn't a sudden revelation at 23. He likely began formulating his ideas in the mid-1660s and continued developing them for years.
• Publication: His work on gravity culminated in the publication of "Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica" (Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy) in 1687, when he was 45.

Here's a more accurate breakdown:

• Age 23: Around this time, Newton was forced to return to his family home due to the Great Plague of London. This period of isolation might have provided him with concentrated time to think about gravity, drawing on his earlier studies in mathematics and motion.
• Later Developments: Over the next two decades, Newton refined his understanding of gravity, connecting the falling apple to the motion of the moon and planets.
• Publication: Finally, in 1687, he published his groundbreaking work, formally presenting his Law of Universal Gravitation.

So, while Newton's interest in gravity might have sparked around the age of 23, the true "discovery" and its scientific explanation unfolded over a much longer period.