Gravity and mass in General Relativity

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SUMMARY

In General Relativity, the curvature of spacetime is determined by the mass-energy of an object rather than its size or volume. Two planets of identical size can exhibit different gravitational strengths due to their differing masses. The concept of "mass-energy" is crucial in understanding how gravity operates in the context of spacetime curvature. This distinction clarifies that gravity is not solely a function of physical dimensions but is fundamentally linked to the mass of the celestial bodies involved.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of General Relativity principles
  • Familiarity with mass-energy equivalence
  • Knowledge of spacetime curvature concepts
  • Basic grasp of gravitational theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of mass-energy in General Relativity
  • Explore the mathematical formulation of spacetime curvature
  • Study the differences between mass and volume in gravitational contexts
  • Investigate the role of spin in gravitational effects
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of gravity and spacetime in the context of General Relativity.

Mekon
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Hello all,
If there are two planets of identical size but very different mass, why does one have a higher gravity than the other given that space/time is curved by each in the same way? Or does space/time curvature depend not on the size of a body but its mass?
TIA
Mekon
 
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Spacetime curvature caused by a massive body depends on the body's size, mass, and spin. Curvature depends on the distribution and movement of mass/energy.
 
Mekon said:
Hello all,
If there are two planets of identical size but very different mass, why does one have a higher gravity than the other given that space/time is curved by each in the same way? Or does space/time curvature depend not on the size of a body but its mass?
TIA
Mekon
Curvature depends upon "mass-energy". Where in the world did you get the idea that it depended on "size" (volume)?
 

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