An Apparent Contradiction in General Relativity?

Thread starter Juan Largo
Start date Jul 7, 2014
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Contradiction General General relativity Relativity

In summary: If you now move the pencil to a different point P_1, the curve on the paper will be a bit different (it will be shifted to the right, for instance), because the path of the particle has changed since P_0.This analogy can be generalized to curved surfaces in space: a surface is like a sheet of paper with a bunch of curves drawn on it, and the direction in which a point is moving is the direction of the curve that passes through that point. (This analogy is a bit oversimplified, but it should give you the general idea.)So, in summary, background independence is violated when objects travel along geodesics through curved

Jul 8, 2014

Dale

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jedishrfu said:

Please CLOSE this thread, it has veered way off course and the OP hasn't responded sine being rebuked for his lack of references.

OK..

<h2>1. What is the apparent contradiction in General Relativity?</h2><p>The apparent contradiction in General Relativity refers to the fact that the theory predicts the existence of singularities, which are points of infinite density and curvature, in certain solutions. However, these singularities seem to violate the laws of physics, such as the conservation of energy and the predictability of events.</p><h2>2. How does General Relativity explain the apparent contradiction?</h2><p>General Relativity explains the apparent contradiction by proposing that the laws of physics as we know them may break down at these singularities. It suggests that a more complete theory, such as a theory of quantum gravity, is needed to fully understand and explain these phenomena.</p><h2>3. What are some proposed solutions to the apparent contradiction?</h2><p>Some proposed solutions include the idea of cosmic censorship, which suggests that singularities are always hidden from view, and the concept of a bounce universe, where the universe undergoes a cycle of expansion and contraction to avoid singularities.</p><h2>4. How does the existence of black holes relate to the apparent contradiction?</h2><p>Black holes are one of the most well-known examples of singularities in General Relativity. Their existence supports the theory, but the properties of black holes, such as the event horizon and the singularity at the center, also raise questions about the validity of the theory.</p><h2>5. What are the implications of the apparent contradiction for our understanding of the universe?</h2><p>The apparent contradiction in General Relativity highlights the limitations of our current understanding of the universe and the need for a more complete theory. It also raises questions about the nature of space, time, and the fundamental laws of physics. By studying and trying to resolve this contradiction, we may gain a deeper understanding of the universe and its origins.</p>

Related to An Apparent Contradiction in General Relativity?

1. What is the apparent contradiction in General Relativity?

The apparent contradiction in General Relativity refers to the fact that the theory predicts the existence of singularities, which are points of infinite density and curvature, in certain solutions. However, these singularities seem to violate the laws of physics, such as the conservation of energy and the predictability of events.

2. How does General Relativity explain the apparent contradiction?

General Relativity explains the apparent contradiction by proposing that the laws of physics as we know them may break down at these singularities. It suggests that a more complete theory, such as a theory of quantum gravity, is needed to fully understand and explain these phenomena.

3. What are some proposed solutions to the apparent contradiction?

Some proposed solutions include the idea of cosmic censorship, which suggests that singularities are always hidden from view, and the concept of a bounce universe, where the universe undergoes a cycle of expansion and contraction to avoid singularities.

4. How does the existence of black holes relate to the apparent contradiction?

Black holes are one of the most well-known examples of singularities in General Relativity. Their existence supports the theory, but the properties of black holes, such as the event horizon and the singularity at the center, also raise questions about the validity of the theory.

5. What are the implications of the apparent contradiction for our understanding of the universe?

The apparent contradiction in General Relativity highlights the limitations of our current understanding of the universe and the need for a more complete theory. It also raises questions about the nature of space, time, and the fundamental laws of physics. By studying and trying to resolve this contradiction, we may gain a deeper understanding of the universe and its origins.