Gravitoelectromagnetism: Why Equation Differs in Sources

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In summary, the gravitoelectric and gravitomagnetic fields do not have a consistent scaling in the literature, making it difficult to compare equations. This is due to the fact that the source of the gravitational field is the second-order stress-energy tensor, while the source of the electromagnetic field is the first-order four-current tensor. This discrepancy arises from the spin-2 character of the gravitational field compared to the spin-1 character of the electromagnetic field.
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In article "A note on the gravitoelectromagnetic analogy" by Matteo Luca Ruggiero (https://arxiv.org/pdf/2111.09008v1.pdf) equation number 18 is ##\nabla \dot\ E=4 \pi G \rho##
, but corresponding equation in the wikipediapage(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravitoelectromagnetism#Equations) is ##\nabla \dot\ E_g=-4 \pi G \rho_g##
. ##E## notes same thing in the article as ##E_g## on the wikipedia page. ##\rho## note same thing in the article as ##\rho_g## on the Wikipedia page. Why is this equation different in these sources? To me seems that Wikipedia equation is correct, because from it follows that direction of gravitational field is directed to (not away from) bodies(with positive mass).
 
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Possibly useful: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravitoelectromagnetism#Scaling_of_fields

The literature does not adopt a consistent scaling for the gravitoelectric and gravitomagnetic fields, making comparison tricky.
For example, to obtain agreement with Mashhoon's writings, all instances of Bg in the GEM equations must be multiplied by −1/2c and Eg by −1. These factors variously modify the analogues of the equations for the Lorentz force. There is no scaling choice that allows all the GEM and EM equations to be perfectly analogous. The discrepancy in the factors arises because the source of the gravitational field is the second order stress–energy tensor, as opposed to the source of the electromagnetic field being the first order four-current tensor.
This difference becomes clearer when one compares non-invariance of relativistic mass to electric charge invariance. This can be traced back to the spin-2 character of the gravitational field, in contrast to the electromagnetism being a spin-1 field. (See Relativistic wave equations for more on "spin-1" and "spin-2" fields).
 

FAQ: Gravitoelectromagnetism: Why Equation Differs in Sources

What is Gravitoelectromagnetism?

Gravitoelectromagnetism is a theoretical framework that attempts to unify the theories of gravity and electromagnetism by describing gravity as a manifestation of spacetime curvature, similar to the way electromagnetism is described as a manifestation of the electromagnetic field.

How does the equation for Gravitoelectromagnetism differ in sources?

The equation for Gravitoelectromagnetism, also known as the Einstein-Maxwell equations, differs in sources because it takes into account both the gravitational and electromagnetic sources of energy and momentum. This allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the interactions between these two fundamental forces.

Why is it important to understand Gravitoelectromagnetism?

Understanding Gravitoelectromagnetism is important because it could potentially lead to a more complete theory of gravity that can be reconciled with the theory of electromagnetism. It also has practical applications in fields such as astrophysics and cosmology.

How is Gravitoelectromagnetism related to Einstein's theory of general relativity?

Gravitoelectromagnetism is a modification of Einstein's theory of general relativity, which describes gravity as a curvature of spacetime caused by the presence of mass and energy. Gravitoelectromagnetism extends this theory to include the effects of electromagnetic fields.

Are there any experimental or observational evidence for Gravitoelectromagnetism?

Currently, there is no direct experimental or observational evidence for Gravitoelectromagnetism. However, there have been some theoretical predictions and indirect evidence that support its existence. Further research and experiments are needed to confirm its validity.

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