Can Photons Orbit Around Large Masses? Exploring Einstein's Theory

In summary, Einstein's theory of general relativity explains that photons cannot orbit around large masses because they have no mass and therefore cannot be affected by gravity. This theory also describes how the curvature of space-time causes the apparent bending of light near a large mass. There is strong evidence, such as the bending of starlight during a solar eclipse, that supports this theory. Newton's theory of gravity is not able to accurately explain the behavior of photons around large masses, as it does not take into account the curvature of space-time. Although gravitational lensing may appear similar to photons orbiting around large masses, it is actually a result of the curved space-time and not the gravitational pull of the object itself.
  • #1
sheriefer
2
0
According to Einstein's theory of general relativity, light bends--or rather space bends--around mass. So, in theory, is it possible for a photon to orbit around a body of sufficiently large mass?
 
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  • #2
Well, I think that this is possible - black holes are such objects.
 
  • #3
Yes, a circular photon orbit is possible at r = 3GM/c2. (The Schwarzschild radius, which defines the 'surface' of the black hole is 2GM/c2) However the orbit is unstable, meaning that photons won't accumulate there, and any photon that is placed there will eventually fall into the hole or run off to infinity.
 

FAQ: Can Photons Orbit Around Large Masses? Exploring Einstein's Theory

Can photons orbit around large masses?

According to Einstein's theory of general relativity, photons cannot orbit around large masses. This is because photons have no mass and therefore cannot be affected by the gravitational force of the large mass.

How does Einstein's theory explain the behavior of photons around large masses?

Einstein's theory of general relativity explains the behavior of photons around large masses by describing how gravity curves the fabric of space-time. This curvature causes the path of photons to appear to bend as they travel near a large mass, but they are not actually orbiting the mass.

Is there any evidence that supports Einstein's theory regarding photons around large masses?

Yes, there is strong evidence supporting Einstein's theory. For example, the bending of starlight observed during a solar eclipse in 1919 was a crucial piece of evidence that confirmed the predictions of general relativity.

Can the behavior of photons around large masses be explained by Newton's theory of gravity?

No, Newton's theory of gravity does not accurately explain the behavior of photons around large masses. This theory assumes that gravity is a force acting between masses, but general relativity shows that gravity is a result of the curvature of space-time.

How does the concept of gravitational lensing relate to photons orbiting around large masses?

Gravitational lensing is a phenomenon where the path of light is bent by the gravitational force of a massive object. This is often observed as a distortion or magnification of distant objects. However, this is not the same as photons orbiting around large masses as described by Einstein's theory. The bending of light in gravitational lensing is due to the curvature of space-time, not the gravitational pull of the object itself.

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