Earth's Momentum: Constantly Changing or Constant?

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    Earth Momentum
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The discussion centers on whether Earth's momentum is constantly changing due to its circular motion around the sun. It highlights that while the velocity of Earth changes, its momentum may not change in a local inertial frame, as described by Einstein's model of gravity. The conversation emphasizes that inertial frames are local in curved space-time, complicating the concept of momentum. Ultimately, the Earth is considered to be traveling along a straight path in curved space-time, which affects how momentum is perceived. The complexities of gravitational forces and motion are key to understanding Earth's momentum.
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Momentum of Earth?

Earlier I was thinking about circular motions and centripetal forces and the Earth around the sun, If p=mv and the velocity of a object in circular motion is constantly changing does this mean Earth's momentum is constantly changing?
or is it that Earth is traveling on a straight path through curved space-time and does not have centripetal force?
 
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Johnahh said:
Earlier I was thinking about circular motions and centripetal forces and the Earth around the sun, If p=mv and the velocity of a object in circular motion is constantly changing does this mean Earth's momentum is constantly changing?
Yes.
Johnahh said:
or is it that Earth is traveling on a straight path through curved space-time and does not have centripetal force?
That is Einsteins model of gravity. In a local inertial frame frame the momentum of the Earth doesn't change. But you cannot extend the inertial rest frame of the Sun to include Earth. Inertial frames are only local in curved space-time.
 
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