Einstein's Theory of Gravity Waves: Speed of Light

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SUMMARY

Einstein determined that gravity waves travel at the speed of light based on his rejection of ether theory and the application of Lorentz transformations, which incorporate the speed of light (c) as a fundamental constant. While some modern physicists argue that many of Einstein's initial interpretations may contain errors, his intuitive grasp of physical interactions laid the groundwork for general relativity. Notably, researchers like Lichnerowicz in 1955 further explored this concept, providing additional insights into the propagation of gravity waves.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of general relativity principles
  • Familiarity with Lorentz transformations
  • Knowledge of electromagnetic wave theory
  • Awareness of historical context in physics, particularly regarding ether theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Einstein's original papers on general relativity
  • Study Lichnerowicz's contributions to gravity wave theory
  • Explore the implications of Lorentz transformations in modern physics
  • Investigate the relationship between gravity waves and electromagnetic waves
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of theoretical physics, and anyone interested in the historical development of concepts in general relativity and gravity wave propagation.

Zman
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On what basis did Einstein determine that gravity waves travel at the speed of light?
 
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I'm guessing by analogy with electromagnetic waves...with his interpretations that ether theory is false...that the Lorentz transformations with c2 components were applicable...but it IS difficult to find documentation of Einstein's path thru GR...

One popular physics author mentioned in passing he had read Einstein's original notes and that many of Einstein's errors would be obvious to a modern physicst because of all the progress since...of course it easier to have a theory explained to you rather than have to do the original work!
Apparently Einstein's real genius is he intuition about physical interactions...what "feels" right...but that later led him off course when he rejected quantum mechanics as illustrated by "God does not play dice" observation...
 
Zman said:
On what basis did Einstein determine that gravity waves travel at the speed of light?

I ignore if he did determine this result. But other researchers did, for example Lichnerowicz in 1955. Just look for some references and you certainly will find the solution to your question.
 

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