Earth's Momentum: Constantly Changing or Constant?

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    Earth Momentum
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the momentum of Earth in relation to its orbit around the Sun. It establishes that while the velocity of Earth changes due to its circular motion, its momentum remains constant when viewed from a local inertial frame, as per Einstein's model of gravity. The concept of curved space-time is crucial, indicating that Earth's path is not influenced by centripetal force in the traditional sense. Thus, Earth's momentum is not constantly changing when analyzed within the appropriate frame of reference.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newtonian physics, specifically momentum (p=mv).
  • Familiarity with Einstein's theory of general relativity and curved space-time.
  • Knowledge of inertial frames and their implications in physics.
  • Basic concepts of circular motion and centripetal forces.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Einstein's theory of general relativity in detail.
  • Explore the implications of local inertial frames in curved space-time.
  • Learn about the mathematical formulation of momentum in non-inertial frames.
  • Investigate the effects of gravitational forces on orbital mechanics.
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Physicists, students of physics, and anyone interested in the dynamics of celestial bodies and the implications of general relativity on momentum and motion.

Johnahh
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Momentum of Earth?

Earlier I was thinking about circular motions and centripetal forces and the Earth around the sun, If p=mv and the velocity of a object in circular motion is constantly changing does this mean Earth's momentum is constantly changing?
or is it that Earth is traveling on a straight path through curved space-time and does not have centripetal force?
 
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Johnahh said:
Earlier I was thinking about circular motions and centripetal forces and the Earth around the sun, If p=mv and the velocity of a object in circular motion is constantly changing does this mean Earth's momentum is constantly changing?
Yes.
Johnahh said:
or is it that Earth is traveling on a straight path through curved space-time and does not have centripetal force?
That is Einsteins model of gravity. In a local inertial frame frame the momentum of the Earth doesn't change. But you cannot extend the inertial rest frame of the Sun to include Earth. Inertial frames are only local in curved space-time.
 

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