Gravitation: curved spacetime or a force?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concepts of gravitation and how it is currently understood in relation to Einstein's theory of general relativity and the quest for the graviton. There is a question about whether quantum gravity conflicts with the theory of relativity and the idea that there may be a potential reconciliation between the two theories in the future. Overall, there is still much to be understood about gravity and its role in the universe.
  • #1
vinirn
13
0
In the Einstein's theory of general relativity, the gravitation is an attribute of curved spacetime instead of being due to a force propagated between bodies.
But the quest for the famous graviton does not presume that gravitation is due to a force?
Is the quantum gravity conflicting with the theory of relativity?
 
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  • #2
Gravity is a phenomenon that we just don't fully understand yet. We are familiar with "what it does", the laws governing its consequences, but we don't understand exactly how. There are contradictions in the current state of the two theories, but many physicists (not necessarily a majority) seem to believe that we may be close to a model that reconciles the two theories into one uber-theory.
 

Related to Gravitation: curved spacetime or a force?

1. What is the concept of curved spacetime in relation to gravitation?

Curved spacetime is a fundamental concept in Einstein's theory of general relativity, which describes gravity as the curvature of spacetime. According to this theory, massive objects such as planets and stars cause a curvature in the fabric of spacetime, which in turn affects the motion of other objects in its vicinity.

2. How is the concept of curved spacetime different from the traditional understanding of gravity as a force?

The traditional understanding of gravity as a force is based on Newton's theory of gravitation, which describes gravity as a force of attraction between two objects with mass. In contrast, Einstein's theory of general relativity explains gravity as the result of the curvature of spacetime caused by massive objects.

3. Can you provide an example of how the concept of curved spacetime explains a phenomenon?

One example of how curved spacetime explains a phenomenon is the bending of light by massive objects. According to general relativity, the curvature of spacetime caused by a massive object, such as a star, can deflect the path of light passing near it. This phenomenon, known as gravitational lensing, has been observed and confirmed by scientists.

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

The concept of curved spacetime has revolutionized our understanding of the universe by providing a unified framework for understanding gravity and its effects. It has also led to new insights into the behavior of massive objects, such as black holes, and has helped to explain various cosmological phenomena, such as the expanding universe.

5. Is there any evidence to support the concept of curved spacetime?

Yes, there is a significant amount of evidence to support the concept of curved spacetime. One of the most famous examples is the observation of the precession of Mercury's orbit, which could not be explained by Newton's theory of gravitation but was accurately predicted by general relativity. Additionally, numerous other experiments and observations, such as gravitational lensing and the redshift of light, have provided strong evidence for the existence of curved spacetime.

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