Gravitational Waves: What Happens to a Body Experiencing One?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the effects of gravitational waves on physical bodies, specifically examining how a gravitational wave (GR wave) causes expansion and contraction of space within an object, such as a ball. It highlights that the reference point for measuring deformation during this process is ambiguous. Additionally, the conversation touches on the impact of gravitational waves on atomic structures, noting that a sufficiently strong gravitational wave could potentially alter the distances between electrons and the nucleus of an atom. The ability to measure these changes is theoretically possible through interference methods.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational waves and their properties
  • Basic knowledge of atomic structure, including electron-nucleus interactions
  • Familiarity with interference techniques in physics
  • Concept of spacetime and its deformation due to gravitational influences
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and detection methods of gravitational waves using LIGO
  • Study the effects of gravitational waves on atomic and subatomic particles
  • Explore the principles of interference and how it applies to measuring changes in distance
  • Investigate the theoretical frameworks surrounding spacetime deformation in general relativity
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, astrophysicists, students of general relativity, and anyone interested in the implications of gravitational waves on matter and spacetime.

CassiopeiaA
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What happens to a body experiencing a gravitational wave?
Suppose I put a ball in the path of a GR wave. As the wave passes through it, the space will expand and contract. This means that the space between every point in the ball should expand and contract. But what will be the reference point I should consider while looking at such king of deformation?

Also what happens to the distances between electrons and nucleus inside every atom?

I have a very amateur knowledge about this subject. If someone has good links for explanations please post.
 
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Well, first of all it has to be a pretty impressive strong gravitational wave to overcome the bounding force between atomic particles. But in theory you should be able to measure the change in separation between two objects via interference.
 

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