Curved Spacetime & Mass Movement: Exploring the Possibilities

In summary, the conversation discusses the effects of curvature in spacetime on the movement of mass, specifically in relation to gravitation. It is mentioned that bodies interacting gravitationally will enter the EOMs, which is a complex concept in current gravitational theories. The comparison is made to the effect of an electron's own electrical field, and the idea of a forward-moving planet diverging from its path due to spacetime curvature is brought up. It is then discussed that a spherical mass creates a symmetrical spacetime distortion without a preferred direction, leading to the gravitational self-effect of compression towards the planet's center.
  • #1
TimeRip496
254
5
Is the movement of a mass affected by its curvature in spacetime? For instance will a forward moving planet diverges from its original straight line path due to the curvature of spacetime cause by it?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Yes. If bodies interact gravitationally then all their masses will enter the EOMs. It is a difficult case to handle in current gravitational theories.
 
  • #3
Sounds similar to "is the electron affected by its own electrical field?". I shudder at the thought of looking into such depths.
 
  • #4
TimeRip496 said:
For instance will a forward moving planet diverges from its original straight line path due to the curvature of spacetime cause by it?
Where should it diverge towards? A spherical mass creates a symmetrical spacetime distortion, without any preferred direction.

The gravitational self-effect is the compression under it's own gravity, as all the point masses the planet consists of tend to diverge towards the center.
 
  • Like
Likes wabbit

Related to Curved Spacetime & Mass Movement: Exploring the Possibilities

1. What is curved spacetime?

Curved spacetime is a concept in Einstein's theory of general relativity that describes how the presence of mass and energy can cause the fabric of space and time to bend or curve. This bending of spacetime is what we perceive as gravity.

2. How does mass movement affect spacetime?

Mass movement, or the movement of large amounts of mass, can have a significant impact on the curvature of spacetime. The more mass there is in a particular area, the greater the curvature of spacetime will be. This can cause objects to move towards the source of the mass, as they are following the curved path of spacetime.

3. Can mass movement create gravitational waves?

Yes, mass movement can create gravitational waves. Gravitational waves are ripples in the fabric of spacetime that are caused by the acceleration of massive objects. When mass moves, it creates changes in the curvature of spacetime, which can then propagate outwards as gravitational waves.

4. How does the concept of curved spacetime impact our understanding of the universe?

The concept of curved spacetime has had a significant impact on our understanding of the universe. It has allowed us to explain the phenomenon of gravity in a more comprehensive and accurate way, and has also helped us to understand the behavior of massive objects in space, such as black holes and galaxies. It has also played a crucial role in the development of technologies like GPS.

5. Are there any practical applications of curved spacetime?

Yes, there are practical applications of curved spacetime. As mentioned before, the concept of curved spacetime has allowed us to develop accurate GPS systems. It has also been used in the development of gravitational wave detectors, which can help us to study distant objects and events in the universe. Additionally, our understanding of curved spacetime has led to advancements in space travel and exploration.

Back
Top