Gravity on Earth: Explaining Trampoline Warping & Tides

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SUMMARY

This discussion explores the concept of gravity as the warping of space, specifically how it operates on Earth and influences phenomena such as tides. The analogy of a trampoline is used to illustrate how gravity affects objects at different locations, including the poles. The conversation highlights Albert Einstein's theories on general relativity and emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of these concepts to grasp the complexities of gravitational forces. Additionally, it references resources for further exploration of general relativity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of general relativity principles
  • Familiarity with gravitational forces and their effects
  • Basic knowledge of tidal forces and their causes
  • Concept of spacetime and its implications
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Einstein's theory of general relativity in detail
  • Explore the mechanics of tidal forces and their relationship with the Moon
  • Investigate the mathematical framework of spacetime curvature
  • Review introductory resources on gravitational physics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students of physics, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamental principles of gravity and its effects on Earth and celestial bodies.

Aman Trivedi
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If gravity is the warping of space, how does it work on Earth for us? Imagine a trampoline (the most common example for describing gravity) when a bowling ball is kept on a trampoline the weight of the ball forces the trampoline to stretch, but on our planet the gravity works downward on the land regardless of where we are. On the trampoline the whatever is kept below the ball won't feel the downward force, only things that are on top. Then how does gravity work on Earth, and that too on both the poles? Also how does the warping of space justify tides that occur from moons gravitation pull on earth? Albert Einstein's concept of gravity always made sense to me, but only on a larger scale. But when I think about how people on the South Pole and the North Pole feel a downward gravitation, it means the ball warps the trampoline from
North and South, how could that be possible? Ps I haven't really studied general relativity yet, as I'm still doing my IGCSE. Though my curiosity for the cosmos made me stumble upon this. Thank you :)
 
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And, spacetime is, strangely enough, not a trampoline!
 

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