Could gravity be a convergence of waves?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the nature of gravity, specifically exploring the idea that gravity may be a convergence of waves in spacetime rather than a curvature of space. Participants examine analogies used to describe gravity and propose alternative conceptualizations of gravitational effects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the effectiveness of the common analogy of gravity as a heavy ball on a bed sheet, suggesting it is flawed because it relies on gravity itself and does not accurately represent its dimensionality.
  • The same participant proposes that gravity might be the result of waves in spacetime that herd matter together, with orbital effects being an illusion caused by these fluctuations.
  • Another participant challenges the initial idea by stating that there is no mathematical support for it and emphasizes that gravity is understood as a three-dimensional distortion of space rather than a two-dimensional model.
  • A later reply humorously suggests that a diagram could help clarify the theory, while expressing doubt about the ability to develop the necessary mathematics for it.
  • One participant reminds others to adhere to forum rules regarding personal theories, indicating a concern about the validity of the proposed ideas.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the initial proposal about gravity as waves, with some emphasizing the need for mathematical support and a clearer understanding of gravity's dimensionality. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing views present.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations in the initial proposal, including the absence of mathematical backing and the reliance on analogies that may not accurately represent the complexities of gravity.

cookertron
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I was just watching a television program about gravity today and it got me wondering what gravity was exactly.

Most analogies used to describe gravity are of a heavy ball on a bed sheet. The ball creates a depression in the sheet and objects placed on the sheet will fall in towards the ball.
My problem with that idea is that it uses gravity itself for the demonstration and so is relatively pointless. Not only that but gravity appears not to be two dimensional like the bed sheet.

My idea (at least I think it's my idea) is, what if gravity doesn't bend space like the weight on the sheet but instead matter is herded together by waves in space time.

The effect of orbit is merely an illusion created by fluctuations in the waves. While that might be a coincidence too great it does leave thought for the source of the waves.

Your thought's will be well received :)
 
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There is no math to support your guess. Not to sound rude, but I could just as easily say, "Maybe matter is just really friendly".

You are right, gravity is not two dimensional like the bed sheet, and physicists understand this, but it is more difficult to try to explain that model as if there were an infinite number of bed sheets in all orientations around the object. The "gravity well" isn't in a particular orientation, it is a three dimensional distortion of space
 
Travis_King said:
There is no math to support your guess. Not to sound rude, but I could just as easily say, "Maybe matter is just really friendly".

I know, what if I drew a diagram lol.

I don't think I'd ever be able to calculate the maths for my theory however put me in closed room with a typewriter to bash for long enough and I might come up with something.
 
Please reread the PF rules on personal theories.
 

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