A way to ripple the fabric of space?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of gravitational waves and their potential effects on the fabric of space. Mention is made of a hypothetical scenario involving a large star disappearing and reappearing, and questions are raised about the resulting wave effect. The explanation of gravitational waves is described as ripples in the curvature of spacetime, as predicted by Einstein's theory of general relativity, and a gravitational-wave detector is mentioned as a device used to measure these waves.
  • #1
dilsfunspot
6
1
So i was sitting in Algebra the other day, day-dreaming when i thought of something:

I know gravity exists because all objects have mass that bend space causing a trampoline effect and pull objects towards them. So, what happens if you have something that has extreme mass (say a large star) and make it disappear (yes, i know you cannot create/destroy matter, its an example.). It would then make the fabric of space stretch or "bungee" back to its original flat position. But what if you made it reappear shortly or immediatly after? and what if you did this rapidly? would it create a wave effect through the fabric of space or would it just snap back flat without any "hill"(~) effect? And if it does ripple space what would happen?

sorry if i explained that badly, iv never been good at explaining things.
 
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  • #2
I am not positive, but it appears you are describing gravitational waves. Note there is no mention in the below descriptions of the term "fabric of space". Instead, find ripples or perturbations in the "curvature of spacetime".

“In physics, gravitational waves are ripples in the curvature of spacetime which propagate as a wave, traveling outward from the source.”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravitational_wave“A gravitational-wave detector is any device designed to measure gravitational waves, minute distortions of spacetime that are predicted by Einstein's theory of general relativity. The existence of gravitational radiation is a prediction of general relativity. Gravitational waves are perturbations in the curvature of spacetime caused by accelerated masses.”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravitational-wave_detector
 

1. What is the concept of "rippling the fabric of space"?

"Rippling the fabric of space" is a term used in physics to describe the bending or warping of the fabric of space-time. This concept is based on Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity, which states that mass and energy can cause distortions in the fabric of space-time, resulting in the bending of light and the observed effects of gravity.

2. How can the fabric of space be rippled?

The fabric of space can be rippled through the presence of massive objects, such as planets, stars, or even black holes. These objects create a gravitational pull that causes the fabric of space to warp or bend. Additionally, the fabric of space can also be rippled by large amounts of energy, such as the energy released during a supernova explosion.

3. What are the potential applications of "rippling the fabric of space"?

The concept of "rippling the fabric of space" has potential applications in various fields, including space travel and communication. By understanding how the fabric of space can be manipulated, scientists may be able to develop technologies that allow for faster and more efficient space travel. Additionally, "rippling the fabric of space" could also potentially be used for long-distance communication, as it may allow for the transmission of signals through space-time ripples.

4. Are there any experiments or observations that support the idea of "rippling the fabric of space"?

Yes, there have been several experiments and observations that support the concept of "rippling the fabric of space". One of the most famous examples is the observation of the bending of starlight during a solar eclipse, which confirmed Einstein's theory of general relativity. Other experiments, such as the LIGO experiment, have also detected gravitational waves, which are ripples in the fabric of space caused by the collision of massive objects.

5. What are the current theories or research surrounding "rippling the fabric of space"?

There is ongoing research and study surrounding the concept of "rippling the fabric of space". Some theories suggest that it may be possible to create artificial ripples in space-time through the manipulation of energy, while others are exploring the idea of using these ripples for faster-than-light travel. Additionally, scientists are also studying the effects of "rippling the fabric of space" on the expansion of the universe and the potential implications for our understanding of dark matter and dark energy.

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