Gravity-like Force: Is Another Force Weaker Than Gravity?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the hypothetical existence of a force similar to gravity that is dependent on the stress-energy tensor. Participants explore whether such a force would necessarily be weaker than gravity and the implications of its potential existence.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that if another force similar to gravity exists, it must be weaker than gravity due to the lack of observational evidence for such a force.
  • Others argue that the absence of observed effects does not definitively imply that a similar force is weaker, as it could be undetectable.
  • A later reply questions how one could differentiate between gravity and another force if both couple to the stress-energy tensor in the same way.
  • Some participants express skepticism about the theoretical possibility of such a force existing, citing good reasons for doubt.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus; multiple competing views regarding the existence and strength of a potential gravity-like force remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on observational evidence and the theoretical framework surrounding forces that couple to the stress-energy tensor. The discussion does not resolve the implications of these factors.

accdd
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Is it true that if there was another force similar to gravity (dependent on the stress-energy tensor) then it would have to be weaker than gravity? If so, why?
 
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Because we have not observed such a force which should supplement gravity.
 
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accdd said:
If so, why?
We have not observed any such thing,so if it exists it must be weaker than what we are able to observe, and we do observe gravitational effects.
(There are also some good theoretical reasons to be skeptical of the possibility).
 
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If it couples to the stress-energy tensor just as gravity does, how could you ever tell?
 
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