Could gravity have 2 components like a photon

In summary, gravity is typically considered to have one component known as the gravito-electric field. However, according to the linearized field equations, matter in motion can also give rise to a gravito-magnetic field, similar to the magnetic field of a photon. Gravitational waves can then be seen as having two components, although they are not predicted to be dipolar but rather quadrupolar. This understanding of gravity, though, only works in relatively weak gravitational fields and breaks down near objects like neutron stars and black holes.
  • #1
cragar
2,552
3
could gravity have 2 components like a photon , or does gravity just have one component?
Is a gravitational wave a self-sustaining G field .
 
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  • #2
Yes, linearized gravity gives rise to a gravitomagnetic field, which is like the magnetic field of a photon. So a graviton does have two components like that.

But linearized gravity only works in relatively weak gravitational fields. It breaks down in vicinities of such objects as neutron stars and black holes.
 
  • #3
cragar said:
could gravity have 2 components like a photon , or does gravity just have one component?
Is a gravitational wave a self-sustaining G field .

That's a good question, Crager.


Gravity itself (say of a non-rotating planet) is considered to have one component and is usually referred to as the the gravito-electric field, which is analogous to a static charged sphere which only consists of an electric (electrostatic) field.

However, (as K^2 mentinioned) according to the linearized field equations matter in motion gives rise to a gravito-magnetic field analogous to a magnetic field resulting from motion of charge. A time rate of change of the gravitoelectric field (gravity) can also give rise to a gravito-magnetic field.

And yes, gravitational "waves" can then be considered to have two components, like EM, albeit, not predicted to be dipolar, but quadrupolar.

Creator
 
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  • #4
interesting thanks for your answers .
 
  • #5


I cannot definitively say whether gravity has two components like a photon or not. The current understanding of gravity is based on Einstein's theory of general relativity, which describes gravity as the curvature of space-time caused by the presence of mass or energy. In this theory, there is no mention of multiple components of gravity. However, there are ongoing scientific research and theories that explore the possibility of additional components or interactions of gravity.

Regarding the comparison to a photon, it is important to note that photons are particles that carry energy and have properties such as mass and momentum. Gravity, on the other hand, is a force that acts on objects with mass. Therefore, the concept of having two components may not be directly applicable to gravity.

As for the question of whether a gravitational wave is a self-sustaining G field, the answer is not clear-cut. Gravitational waves are ripples in the fabric of space-time that are created by the acceleration of massive objects. They do not require any external source or energy to exist, but they do lose energy as they propagate through space. So while they may not be self-sustaining in the traditional sense, they do not require continuous input of energy to exist.

In conclusion, the concept of gravity having two components and the self-sustaining nature of gravitational waves are still areas of active research and debate in the scientific community. While our current understanding of gravity does not support these ideas, they cannot be completely ruled out either. Further research and experimentation are needed to fully understand the complexities of gravity.
 

1. What is a photon?

A photon is a fundamental particle that carries electromagnetic radiation, such as light. It has no mass and travels at the speed of light.

2. How does gravity work?

Gravity is a force that attracts objects towards each other. It is caused by the curvature of space and time, according to Einstein's theory of general relativity.

3. Can gravity have multiple components?

While gravity is a fundamental force, it can be described by different components, such as the gravitational force between masses and the curvature of spacetime.

4. Is there evidence that suggests gravity has two components?

There is currently no evidence that suggests gravity has two components, as described in the theory of general relativity. However, some theories, such as string theory, propose the existence of additional dimensions that could potentially affect the behavior of gravity.

5. How would a two-component gravity system differ from our current understanding?

If gravity did have two components, it would likely require a major overhaul of our current understanding of the universe and the laws of physics. It could potentially lead to new insights into the nature of gravity and its role in the universe.

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