Is Special Relativity the Key to Understanding Shrinking Circles?

In summary, a circle with a center at (h, k) and a radius of r is spun around an axis perpendicular to its plane and passing through its center. Due to gravity, the length of the circle decreases while the radius remains constant. This causes the value of pi to no longer be a constant. This paradox was the basis for Einstein's consideration of non-euclidean geometries in the physical universe.
  • #1
yourdadonapogostick
270
1
am i missing something here?
we have a circle: [tex](x-h)^2+(y-k)^2=r^2[/tex] where (h,k) is the center and r is the radius. we now spin the circle about an axis that is perpendicular to the plane on which the circle lies and it runs through the center of said circle. gravity contracts length (and my the equivelance principle, so does acceleration), so as the 1-sphere spins about the axis, the distance between any two points on it decreases while the radius stays the same. since [tex]\pi=\frac{c}{2r}[/tex], where c is circumference and r is radius, [tex]\pi[/tex] no longer is a constant. the circle shrinks, but the radius stays the same. what is going on? does the circle turn into a cone?
 
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  • #2
i just found out that the equivelence princliple doesn't apply here.
 
  • #3
You have stumbled upon a fanatastic paradox of special relativity

As it appears in the history books, this is the very same case that lead Einstein to consider non-euclidean geometries in the physical universe.
 

FAQ: Is Special Relativity the Key to Understanding Shrinking Circles?

What is the concept of gravity contracts length?

The concept of gravity contracts length refers to the phenomenon that objects in a gravitational field will appear to have their lengths shortened when compared to their lengths in a non-gravitational environment.

How does gravity affect the length of an object?

Gravity affects the length of an object by exerting a force on it, causing it to contract in the direction of the force. This is due to the curvature of spacetime caused by massive objects.

Does gravity only contract the length of objects?

No, gravity can also contract the width and height of objects. However, the amount of contraction is dependent on the direction of the force and the orientation of the object.

Is the effect of gravity on length noticeable in everyday life?

Yes, the effect of gravity on length is noticeable in everyday life. For example, the length of a pendulum will appear shorter when it is closer to the Earth's surface due to the gravitational force exerted on it.

Are there any exceptions to the concept of gravity contracts length?

Yes, there are exceptions to the concept of gravity contracts length. For extremely small objects, such as subatomic particles, quantum effects may dominate and the concept of length may not apply in the same way as it does for larger objects.

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