Geodesic equation in Minkowski space clarification

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the geodesic equation in Minkowski space, emphasizing that it describes worldlines of freely falling objects, which are weightless and not influenced by forces. It distinguishes between the geodesic equation and the equivalence principle, asserting that changing coordinates does not create a force, as gravity is not considered a force in relativity. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding these concepts within the framework of General Relativity (GR).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the geodesic equation in Minkowski space
  • Familiarity with the equivalence principle in General Relativity
  • Knowledge of the concept of free fall in the context of relativity
  • Basic grasp of coordinate transformations in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of the geodesic equation in General Relativity
  • Explore the equivalence principle and its applications in physics
  • Learn about the concept of free fall and its relation to gravitational fields
  • Investigate coordinate transformations and their effects on physical laws
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those studying General Relativity, as well as anyone interested in the relationship between gravity and acceleration in the context of Minkowski space.

sqljunkey
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Hi,
So the geodesic equation is saying in my frame of reference I may see acceleration and then in your frame of reference you may see gravity? So by just changing coordinates you can create a "force" ?

And also is this relevant to the Minkowski space or do I need to be in GR to be able to get this interchange of acceleration and force?

Thanks
 
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sqljunkey said:
So the geodesic equation is saying in my frame of reference I may see acceleration and then in your frame of reference you may see gravity?

No. The geodesic equation tells you what worldlines are freely falling, i.e., weightless. That has nothing to do with frames of reference.

You might be confusing the geodesic equation with the equivalence principle.

sqljunkey said:
So by just changing coordinates you can create a "force" ?

No, because in relativity gravity is not a force. Objects moving solely under gravity are in free fall, and in relativity free fall means zero force.
 

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