Solving the Paradox of Rope: Transmission of Info in GR

In summary, the conversation revolves around a thought experiment involving a rope tied between the Earth and the Sun, and the speed at which information would be transmitted if the rope were cut. The question is whether the information would be transmitted immediately, at the speed of light, or at the speed of sound in the rope. The participants share their opinions and discuss a related FAQ about sending signals faster than light using a rigid rod. The conclusion is that the resolution of the paradox is the same as in the FAQ.
  • #1
Javier Chornet
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I was thinking about a gendanken experiment that I don't know how to solve:

Imagine we tie one extrem of a rope in the Earth and the other one in the Sun, with some tension, and connected to a dynamometer (obviously in ideal conditions: no heat, no rotation etc.).
My question is: when will the dynamometer feel that we've cutted the rope in the earth?
In other words: what's the speed of transmision of the information? Inmediatly? (Obviously not because GR) At the speed of light? At the speed of the waves in the rope?

What's your opinion? Can anybody demonstrate what will happens?
 
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  • #2
The wave speed in the rope.

This might give you some insights:
 
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Likes Ibix, Javier Chornet, vanhees71 and 1 other person
  • #3
Very cool! Had seen this quite a while ago but had forgotten, so thanks for reminding.:cool:
 
  • #4
Very interesting experiment!
In speed of sound wave in rope with the given tension the information transmits.
 
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FAQ: Solving the Paradox of Rope: Transmission of Info in GR

What is the paradox of rope in the context of General Relativity (GR)?

The paradox of rope refers to the idea that when a rope is stretched between two objects in GR, the tension in the rope creates a curvature in spacetime that causes the objects to move towards each other. This seems to violate the principle of relativity, which states that the laws of physics should be the same for all observers regardless of their motion.

How does General Relativity explain the transmission of information through a rope?

In GR, the tension in a rope is caused by the curvature of spacetime caused by the mass of the objects it is attached to. This curvature creates gravitational waves that travel through spacetime and carry information about the tension in the rope. As these waves pass through space, they cause the objects to move towards each other, resulting in the transmission of information.

What is the significance of solving the paradox of rope in GR?

Solving the paradox of rope is important because it helps to reconcile the principles of relativity and gravity in the context of GR. It also allows us to better understand the fundamental nature of spacetime and how information is transmitted through it.

What challenges do scientists face in solving the paradox of rope in GR?

One of the main challenges is developing a mathematical framework that can accurately describe the transmission of information through spacetime in the context of GR. This requires a deep understanding of both gravity and relativity, as well as advanced mathematical tools.

How can solving the paradox of rope in GR impact our understanding of the universe?

Solving this paradox can provide new insights into the nature of gravity and the behavior of spacetime. It can also have practical applications, such as improving our ability to detect and measure gravitational waves. Additionally, understanding how information is transmitted through spacetime can potentially help us develop new technologies, such as faster and more efficient forms of communication.

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