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The gravitational force is zero at the center of a planet, but the GPE is at a peak minimum (most negative). What happens to the time dilation factor inside the surface of a planet of uniform density versus at the surface of that planet.?
The discussion centers on the effects of gravitational time dilation at the center of a planet compared to its surface, specifically within the context of general relativity and uniform density planets. Participants explore the relationship between gravitational force, gravitational potential energy (GPE), and time dilation.
Participants express differing views on the relationship between gravitational force and time dilation, with some emphasizing potential over force. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the precise implications of these factors on time dilation at different points within a planet.
Participants do not fully clarify the assumptions underlying their claims, particularly regarding the uniform density of the planet and the neglect of rotational effects. The discussion also lacks resolution on the mathematical treatment of time dilation in this context.
Jeff Reid said:The gravitational force is zero at the center of a planet, but the GPE is at a peak minimum (most negative). What happens to the time dilation factor inside the surface of a planet of uniform density versus at the surface of that planet.?
Jeff Reid said:The gravitational force is zero at the center of a planet, but the GPE is at a peak minimum (most negative). What happens to the time dilation factor inside the surface of a planet of uniform density versus at the surface of that planet.?
A clock at the center of a planet will run slow relative to a clock at the surface (neglecting rotational effects). Time dilation isn't caused by gravitational "force", it's the result of the difference in potential. Any object in between the surface and center of a planet would "freefall" toward the center in the absence of the forces acting on it (like the material resistance of the mass of the planet).Jeff Reid said:The gravitational force is zero at the center of a planet, but the GPE is at a peak minimum (most negative). What happens to the time dilation factor inside the surface of a planet of uniform density versus at the surface of that planet.?