How Einstein believed that space is curved?

In summary, Einstein's general theory of relativity took him 4 years to complete. The fundamental idea behind his work is that he believed that space is curved. He explained his belief in a clear and non-technical way in the introduction of his paper on GR, which can be found in English translation online.
  • #1
FrancisClinton
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It took einstein 4 years to complete his general theory of relativity but the fundamental idea behind this work is that he believed that space is curved , how he is sure about this idea from the beginning ?
 
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FrancisClinton said:
It took einstein 4 years to complete his general theory of relativity but the fundamental idea behind this work is that he believed that space is curved , how he is sure about this idea from the beginning ?
What do you mean "sure about this idea from the beginning"? How do you know he was sure about it from the beginning?
 
  • #3
just asking what made him to believe in this idea " space is curved"
 
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He explained this in very clear and nontechnical language in the introduction to his paper on GR:

The foundation of the general theory of relativity
A. Einstein, Annalen der Physik 49 (1916) 769.

You can find English translations online, e.g., in the back of this book: http://www.lightandmatter.com/genrel/
 
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FAQ: How Einstein believed that space is curved?

What evidence did Einstein use to support his belief that space is curved?

Einstein's theory of general relativity was based on the concept of gravity as a curvature of space. He used observations of planetary orbits, gravitational lensing, and the bending of starlight to support this idea.

How did Einstein's belief in curved space differ from Newton's theory of gravity?

Newtons's theory of gravity described gravity as a force acting between masses, while Einstein's theory described gravity as a curvature of space itself. This means that according to Einstein, objects with mass cause a distortion in the fabric of space, and the curvature of space determines the motion of objects.

Was Einstein's belief in curved space immediately accepted by the scientific community?

No, Einstein's theory of general relativity was met with skepticism at first. It wasn't until the confirmation of gravitational lensing during a solar eclipse in 1919 that his theory gained widespread acceptance.

How does Einstein's theory of curved space impact our understanding of the universe?

Einstein's theory of general relativity revolutionized our understanding of gravity and space. It provided a more accurate description of the motion of objects in our universe and opened the door for further exploration and discovery in the field of cosmology.

Are there any practical applications of Einstein's theory of curved space?

Yes, Einstein's theory has several practical applications, including GPS technology, which relies on precise measurements of time and space to function accurately. The theory also plays a crucial role in the study of black holes and the concept of gravitational waves.

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