Afsar Claims Newton’s Law of Gravitation is Incorrect

Afsar Ali from Tetulia in Panchagarh has claimed that Sir Isaac Newton’s law of gravitation is wrong. According to him, Newton’s first law of motion is correct but incomplete, the second law is entirely accurate, and the third law is purely a theoretical concept without practical validity.

Background and Theory

Afsar Ali, aged 65, worked for many years at the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC). He began his career in 1979 and in 1996 claimed to have discovered a new formula for engine operation. His explanation is that by mechanically controlling inertia in a circular motion—manipulating the properties of inertia, action, and reaction forces in the same direction—it is possible to sequentially convert between motion and rest. This process, he suggests, can generate perpetual motion or self-sustaining mechanical energy.

Analysis of Newton’s Laws

Afsar Ali argues the correct law should state that every action involves friction, resistance, and reaction. When friction, resistance, and reaction are equal, the object remains stationary. Without resistance, a moving object continues due to its inertia.

Experiments and Innovations

As part of his research, he constructed a U-shaped cylinder to test his theory. When water is poured into the cylinder, air is trapped, creating pressure. Upon release of this pressure, the falling water generates energy. He is attempting to develop an engine powered by this principle, capable of running without fuel or electricity.

He has funded the purchase of several small diesel engines for experiments, nearly exhausting his personal finances.

Efforts for Validation

For nearly thirty years, Afsar Ali has sought to have his research verified by various institutions including Dhaka University, the Science and Technology Museum, and Haji Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University. However, none have tested his claims to date. He believes that validation of his work could lead to groundbreaking technological inventions globally.

Educational Background and Publications

Afsar Ali passed his SSC from Jagdal High School in 1975 and completed a two-year course at Thakurgaon Technical School and College in 1978. He has authored numerous articles and books, although none have been published due to lack of opportunity. Currently, he seeks government support to scientifically prove his theory.

Statements on Rocket Motion and Scientific Views

Afsar Ali stated, “It is incorrect to say rockets move due to reaction forces. Rockets actually move because of momentum, which can be explained by Newton’s second law. In my opinion, the third law is mere logic, not reality. What I have said is the truth.”

Local Insight and Scientific Perspective

Mohammad Sarwar Hossain, headmaster of Aziznagar Bimukhi High School near Afsar’s residence, said:
“He has been questioning Newton’s third law for some time, believing it contains inconsistencies. He has been independently researching this matter for years.”

He further explained, “Previously, he researched how to lift water or run machines without fuel, although without notable success so far.”

On Afsar’s current views regarding Newton’s third law, he commented:
“This is difficult to comprehend because the third law is recognised as a fundamental principle of modern science. However, science depends on empirical evidence; any theory or idea is accepted only after thorough testing and proof.”

He added, “If Afsar can present proper evidence to support his claims, it deserves serious consideration. Since he is sincerely engaged in this work, I believe he should be given opportunities, either through government initiatives or by senior members of society. Perhaps then we will learn if his research offers any new perspectives or truths.”