What is the Concept of Velocity and Acceleration in General Relativity?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of absolute velocity and acceleration in GR. It is clarified that there is no absolute velocity, but there is the concept of proper acceleration. This concept is invariant and applies in both GR and SR. The idea of relativistic mass does not apply to gravitation, and the correct statement is more complex. The suggestion is made to read an article on this topic for a better understanding.
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AngPhysics
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I am hoping someone can clarify some confusion I have. It is my understanding that there is no such thing as absolute velocity or acceleration in GR. If one observer is moving near the speed of light and the other is stationary each observer will see the other as in motion. But if they each throw a ball away from themselves the observer in motion, from my understanding, has a much larger gravitational potential than the observer at rest so their would be a feature that distinguishes between their "velocities".
 
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  • #2
AngPhysics said:
It is my understanding that there is no such thing as absolute velocity or acceleration in GR.
While there is no absolute velocity, there is the concept of proper acceleration. This is the acceleration experienced by an observer following a particular world line and is invariant.

The same is true in SR.

AngPhysics said:
from my understanding, has a much larger gravitational potential
Your understanding is wrong. The concept of relativistic mass does not apply to gravitation and how GR couples the metric to matter content. The correct statement is significantly more complicated. I suggest reading my insight article on relativistic mass, which is an obsolete concept not used by most physicists today.
 
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Thank you for the direction!
 

FAQ: What is the Concept of Velocity and Acceleration in General Relativity?

What are coordinates in general relativity?

Coordinates in general relativity are a set of numbers used to specify the position of an event in spacetime. They are used to measure the distance and direction from a reference point, and can be described in terms of time and three-dimensional space.

How do coordinates relate to spacetime in general relativity?

In general relativity, spacetime is described as a four-dimensional manifold, with each point on the manifold representing an event. Coordinates are used to specify the location of an event on this manifold, allowing us to mathematically describe the curvature of spacetime.

What is the significance of choosing different coordinate systems in general relativity?

Choosing different coordinate systems can greatly affect the mathematical description of spacetime in general relativity. Some coordinate systems may be better suited for certain calculations or to describe specific phenomena, while others may be more complex or difficult to work with.

How do coordinates in general relativity differ from coordinates in classical mechanics?

In classical mechanics, coordinates are used to describe the position of an object in three-dimensional space at a specific moment in time. In general relativity, coordinates are used to describe the position of an event in four-dimensional spacetime, taking into account the effects of gravity and the curvature of spacetime.

Can coordinates in general relativity be measured or observed in the physical world?

No, coordinates in general relativity are purely mathematical constructs used to describe the position of events in spacetime. They do not have a physical existence and cannot be measured or observed in the physical world.

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