Einstein vs Newton: Does GR Disprove Gravitation?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between Einstein's General Relativity (GR) and Newton's law of gravitation, particularly questioning whether GR disproves Newton's gravitational equation. The scope includes theoretical implications and conceptual clarifications regarding the applicability of both theories to light and massive objects.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that if Einstein's theory shows that light can be bent due to space-time, then Newton's gravitational equation, F = Gmm/r^2, may not apply to light, raising questions about its validity.
  • Others argue that Einstein's theory does not completely invalidate Newton's law, as it only diverges in extreme conditions, such as with very large or very small masses or when objects are very close together.
  • A participant points out that the discussion has been previously addressed in another thread, suggesting a need to refer to that for further exploration.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between GR and Newton's law, with no consensus reached on whether GR disproves Newton's gravitation. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications for light and the applicability of Newton's equation.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the assumptions regarding the conditions under which Newton's law may or may not apply, nor does it clarify the definitions of "wrong" in the context of comparing the two theories.

Bernard
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If Einstein proved that light (a massless object) can be bent because of space-time. Then what happens to Newton's gravitation equation F = Gmm/r^2. Obviously this cannot apply to light, so technically this should fall completely, having both Newton's and Einsteins discovery working at the same time can be confusing.
 
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That depends upon what you mean by "wrong". Einstein's theory differs from Newton's only in extreme cases, such as very large or very small mass, or two objects being extremely close.
 
As A.T. says above, we already have a live thread on this question. Please review that thread, and if necessary continue the discussion there.

This thread is closed.
 

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