Gravitational Waves: Speed & How Objects Affect it

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the speed of gravitational waves as they travel through different media, particularly whether their speed is affected by the presence of matter and if certain objects can significantly slow them down.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether gravitational waves travel at a speed slightly less than the speed of light in matter and if certain objects can slow them down significantly.
  • Another participant asserts that gravitational waves always propagate at the speed of light in a vacuum.
  • A link to a related discussion on metamaterials for gravitational waves is provided, suggesting exploration of advanced concepts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is disagreement regarding the speed of gravitational waves in matter, with one participant suggesting potential slowing while another maintains they travel at the speed of light in a vacuum.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the conditions under which gravitational waves might be affected by matter or the specific nature of the objects mentioned.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in gravitational wave physics, the interaction of waves with matter, and advanced materials in physics may find this discussion relevant.

cragar
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What speed do gravitational waves travel in matter. Is it a little less than c. Are their certain objects that slow it down a lot.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
thanks for the response
 
Also, note that gravitational waves always propagate at the speed of light in a vacuum.
 

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