Gravity - an accelerating frame paradox

In summary, the equivalence principle states that the Earth's gravity field is a constantly accelerating frame of reference, and for all observers on its surface, the Earth is constantly accelerating towards them. This does not mean that the Earth is physically expanding outward, but rather that it is accelerating with respect to an inertial frame of reference. The paradox of the Earth's surface appearing to accelerate towards observers without actually moving is resolved by considering proper acceleration and coordinate velocity. On a rotating platform, each point experiences centripetal acceleration, but this does not mean that the platform is physically expanding.
  • #71
ZirkMan said:
Alas, premature joy. That insight fails to explain other many important aspect that I have not included. Sorry, I really don't want to frustrate you anymore (enjoy nismaratwork), I heed your advice and will report back only after I have learned everything that you have recommended or mentioned.

A wise choice...

[PLAIN]http://www.smileyshut.com/smileys/new/emot67.gif [Broken]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
<h2>1. What is the "accelerating frame paradox" in relation to gravity?</h2><p>The accelerating frame paradox refers to the apparent contradiction between the effects of gravity on objects in an accelerating frame of reference. In this scenario, objects appear to be pulled towards the back of the frame, rather than towards the center of mass as expected in a gravitational field.</p><h2>2. How does general relativity explain the accelerating frame paradox?</h2><p>General relativity explains the accelerating frame paradox by considering gravity as a curvature of spacetime. In an accelerating frame, the curvature of spacetime is different than in a stationary frame, leading to the observed effects of gravity on objects.</p><h2>3. Can the accelerating frame paradox be observed in everyday life?</h2><p>Yes, the accelerating frame paradox can be observed in everyday life. For example, when a car accelerates, objects in the car appear to be pulled towards the back of the car rather than towards the front. This is due to the acceleration of the car creating an accelerating frame of reference.</p><h2>4. Does the accelerating frame paradox have any practical applications?</h2><p>The accelerating frame paradox has practical applications in the field of space travel. Understanding how gravity affects objects in an accelerating frame is crucial for space missions, where objects are constantly in motion and experiencing changes in acceleration.</p><h2>5. Is there a resolution to the accelerating frame paradox?</h2><p>While there is no definitive resolution to the accelerating frame paradox, general relativity provides a mathematical framework for understanding and predicting the effects of gravity on objects in an accelerating frame. Further research and experimentation may lead to a deeper understanding of this paradox.</p>

1. What is the "accelerating frame paradox" in relation to gravity?

The accelerating frame paradox refers to the apparent contradiction between the effects of gravity on objects in an accelerating frame of reference. In this scenario, objects appear to be pulled towards the back of the frame, rather than towards the center of mass as expected in a gravitational field.

2. How does general relativity explain the accelerating frame paradox?

General relativity explains the accelerating frame paradox by considering gravity as a curvature of spacetime. In an accelerating frame, the curvature of spacetime is different than in a stationary frame, leading to the observed effects of gravity on objects.

3. Can the accelerating frame paradox be observed in everyday life?

Yes, the accelerating frame paradox can be observed in everyday life. For example, when a car accelerates, objects in the car appear to be pulled towards the back of the car rather than towards the front. This is due to the acceleration of the car creating an accelerating frame of reference.

4. Does the accelerating frame paradox have any practical applications?

The accelerating frame paradox has practical applications in the field of space travel. Understanding how gravity affects objects in an accelerating frame is crucial for space missions, where objects are constantly in motion and experiencing changes in acceleration.

5. Is there a resolution to the accelerating frame paradox?

While there is no definitive resolution to the accelerating frame paradox, general relativity provides a mathematical framework for understanding and predicting the effects of gravity on objects in an accelerating frame. Further research and experimentation may lead to a deeper understanding of this paradox.

Similar threads

  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
11
Views
941
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • Special and General Relativity
4
Replies
115
Views
5K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
24
Views
2K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
7
Views
974
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
5
Views
596
  • Special and General Relativity
2
Replies
69
Views
4K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
14
Views
1K
Back
Top