Is general relativity generally covariant?

Thread starter Phrak
Start date Nov 11, 2011
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Covariant General General relativity Relativity

In summary, general relativity is a theory of gravity that describes it as the curvature of space and time caused by massive objects. It is generally covariant, meaning the laws of physics are the same for all observers. This is important because it ensures consistency and accuracy in describing the universe. General covariance allows us to understand gravity as a geometric phenomenon and is supported by experimental evidence such as the bending of starlight. However, it has limitations as it does not account for the principles of quantum mechanics.

Nov 11, 2011

Phrak

Is general relativity REALLY generally covariant?

Last edited: Nov 11, 2011

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Nov 11, 2011

Bill_K

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Almost any theory may be written in a generally covariant form, including special relativity.

Nov 11, 2011

Phrak

How would you write special relativity in a generaly covariant form?

Nov 11, 2011

dextercioby

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Ask yourself <What is special relativity?> Then you can find ways to make it generally covariant.

1. What is general relativity and what does it mean for it to be generally covariant?

General relativity is a theory of gravity that was developed by Albert Einstein. It explains how gravity works by describing it as the curvature of space and time caused by massive objects. General covariance means that the laws of physics in general relativity are the same for all observers, regardless of their frame of reference.

2. Why is it important for general relativity to be generally covariant?

If general relativity was not generally covariant, it would mean that different observers would measure different physical laws, leading to contradictions and inconsistencies. This would make the theory less reliable and less accurate in describing the universe.

3. How does general covariance affect the way we understand gravity?

General covariance allows us to understand gravity as a geometric phenomenon, rather than a force between masses. This means that gravity is not a force that pulls objects towards each other, but rather the curvature of space and time caused by objects with mass.

4. Are there any experimental evidence or observations that support general relativity's general covariance?

Yes, there is a lot of evidence that supports general relativity's general covariance. One of the most famous pieces of evidence is the observation of the bending of starlight by the sun's gravitational field, which was predicted by general relativity.

5. Are there any limitations to general relativity's general covariance?

While general covariance is a fundamental principle of general relativity, it only applies to systems that follow the laws of classical physics. It does not take into account the principles of quantum mechanics, which are necessary to understand the behavior of particles on a very small scale.