Space-Time gravitational field problem

In summary: A gravitational field is not uniform in this sense. In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of space-time being deformed from a uniform gravitation field to one that is compressed inward, forming a curvature. It is also mentioned that this curvature can be understood as a series of decreasing diameters of circular field lines. The conversation then questions why the planet's orbits are elliptical instead of circular, and discusses the role of the cosmological constant and dark matter in this phenomenon. Finally, the conversation addresses the misconception that orbits should be circular in the General Theory of Relativity, explaining that elliptical and precessing orbits naturally emerge in this theory.
  • #1
Foxdove
3
0
Space-Time is deformed from a uniform gravitation field to one that is compressed inward so as to form a curvature. That curvature is uniform and can be understood as a series of decreasing diameters of circular field lines. If that is the case, then why are the planet's orbits elliptical and not circular? They follow the curvature of the gravitational field lines, which are circular. Are the orbits elliptical due to a composite interaction of an infinite number of celestial bodies in the universe? Are the elliptical orbits a sign of the cosmological constant or perhaps if not taken into consideration the illusion of the mysterious dark matter, yet undetected? If the elliptical orbits are a result of the motion of the celestial bodies, then why was this overlooked or skirted around (no pun) in the General Theory of Relativity?
 
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  • #2
Foxdove said:
can be understood as a series of decreasing diameters of circular field lines. If that is the case
That is not the case; perhaps your questions are based in confusion between modern knowledge and oversimplified cartoons of modern knowledge. Nothing in GR nor Newtonian gravity would say that orbits have to be circular in the first place.
 
  • #3
Foxdove said:
Space-Time is deformed from a uniform gravitation field to one that is compressed inward so as to form a curvature. That curvature is uniform and can be understood as a series of decreasing diameters of circular field lines. If that is the case, then why are the planet's orbits elliptical and not circular? They follow the curvature of the gravitational field lines, which are circular. Are the orbits elliptical due to a composite interaction of an infinite number of celestial bodies in the universe? Are the elliptical orbits a sign of the cosmological constant or perhaps if not taken into consideration the illusion of the mysterious dark matter, yet undetected? If the elliptical orbits are a result of the motion of the celestial bodies, then why was this overlooked or skirted around (no pun) in the General Theory of Relativity?

You're using a model where gravity is the curvature of space as you move through it. This isn't right; most of the visible effect of gravity is due to an acceleration which is experienced even for slow-moving or static objects, and can be considered as being due to the curvature of paths in space with respect to time. For a spherically symmetrical situation, the curvature of space is of the same magnitude, but the rate at which something moves through space is typically tiny (as a fraction of c) compared with the rate at which it moves through time, so the dominant effect is the curvature with respect to time.
 
  • #4
Are the elliptical orbits a sign of the cosmological constant or perhaps if not taken into consideration the illusion of the mysterious dark matter, yet undetected? If the elliptical orbits are a result of the motion of the celestial bodies, then why was this overlooked or skirted around (no pun) in the General Theory of Relativity?
Elliptical, and precessing orbits emerge naturally in GR. You have been misinformed.
 
  • #6
Space-Time is deformed from a uniform gravitation field to one that is compressed inward so as to form a curvature.

This statement seems self contradicting... there is flat space (without gravity, as in special relativity), a uniform gravitational field (as in the equivalence principle, from an infinite plane of mass) and then typical curved spacetime when gravity from finite sized masses is present.
 
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What is the concept of space-time gravitational field?

The concept of space-time gravitational field is a theory in physics that explains the relationship between space and time, and how they are affected by the presence of massive objects. It suggests that massive objects, such as planets and stars, create a curvature in space-time, which causes other objects to move towards them. This theory was first proposed by Albert Einstein in his theory of general relativity.

How does the space-time gravitational field affect the motion of objects?

The space-time gravitational field affects the motion of objects by causing them to accelerate towards massive objects. This is because the curvature of space-time around these objects creates a force that pulls other objects towards them. The strength of this force depends on the mass and distance of the objects involved.

Can space-time gravitational field be observed?

Yes, the effects of the space-time gravitational field can be observed in various phenomena, such as the orbit of planets around the sun, the bending of light around massive objects, and the gravitational waves detected by advanced instruments. However, the field itself cannot be directly observed as it is a theoretical concept.

How does the space-time gravitational field problem relate to the search for a unified theory of physics?

The space-time gravitational field problem is a significant challenge in physics, as it does not fit into the current theories of quantum mechanics and general relativity. Many scientists believe that finding a unified theory of physics, which combines these two theories, can help to solve the problem and better understand the nature of space and time.

What are some current research and developments in the study of space-time gravitational field?

Scientists are continuously studying the space-time gravitational field to gain a deeper understanding of its properties and effects. Some current research includes studying the effects of gravitational waves, testing Einstein's theory of general relativity, and looking for evidence of dark matter and dark energy, which may have a significant impact on the space-time gravitational field. Additionally, new technologies, such as advanced space telescopes and gravitational wave detectors, are being developed to further explore this field.

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