The forum discussion centers around CERN's science rap video, highlighting its informative nature while addressing a minor inconsistency regarding the understanding of gravity. It emphasizes that gravity, as described by Newton, governs both terrestrial and celestial bodies, and is crucial for understanding the universe's structure and evolution. The discussion also touches on Einstein's general theory of relativity, which is essential for explaining phenomena such as gravitational waves, recently confirmed by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO).
PREREQUISITESAstrophysicists, physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the intersection of science communication and advanced physics concepts.
Gravity was known to humans long before the present-day picture of four fundamental interactions was formed. The nature of gravity is fundamental to our understanding of our solar system, the galaxy and the structure and evolution of the Universe. It was Newton who first understood that gravity not only dictates the fall of apples and all bodies on Earth, but also planetary motion in our solar system and the sun itself are govern by the same physical principles. On the larger scales the effects of gravity are even more pronounced, guiding the evolution of the galaxies, galactic clusters and ultimately determining the fate of the Universe. Presently the Einstein’s general theory of relativity is a key to the understanding a wide range of phenomena, spanning from the dynamics of compact astrophysical objects such as neutron stars and black holes, to cosmology, where the Universe itself is the object of study. Its striking predictions include gravitational lensing and waves, and only black holes have not yet been directly confirmed.
LURCH said:So, gravity waves have been directly confirmed? That is news to me, as well.I've been following LIGO, but haven't checked in lately. Last I heard, there were still no definitive results.
It's great isn't it.qwerty2x said:I like the rap!