Is Gravity a Result of Mass Attracting Quanta of Mass?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the nature of gravity, exploring whether it can be understood as a result of mass attracting quanta of mass, specifically gravitons. Participants examine the relationship between mass, energy, and the curvature of spacetime, as well as the implications of quantum gravity. The scope includes theoretical considerations, conceptual clarifications, and debates about existing models.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that gravity could be viewed as quanta of mass (gravitons) being attracted by more massive objects, suggesting a gravitational equilibrium between masses.
  • Others argue that gravity is fundamentally related to the curvature of spacetime created by mass and energy, as described by General Relativity (GR).
  • One participant emphasizes that there is currently no quantum theory of gravity, making any discussion about gravitons speculative.
  • Another participant questions the completeness of explanations regarding how matter creates and warps spacetime, highlighting the need for a physical model.
  • Some express frustration with the mathematical nature of modern physics, advocating for a more intuitive understanding of concepts like spacetime warping.
  • A later reply mentions that while matter warps spacetime, the exact mechanisms and formulations of this process remain uncertain and are not fully understood.
  • Participants also discuss the implications of gravitational fields in relation to acceleration, with differing views on the validity of certain statements regarding these concepts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the nature of gravity, with no consensus reached. Some agree on the importance of mass and energy in the context of spacetime curvature, while others challenge specific claims and highlight the speculative nature of quantum gravity discussions.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of a unified quantum theory of gravity, the dependence on various interpretations of spacetime geometry, and unresolved questions about the fundamental nature of gravitational interactions.

  • #31
Sorry for being vague. For what its worth the link cleared things up a lot. If the forum is not for sharing and building understanding, then what is it for? (I didn't ask for any replies to exclude mathematics).
 
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  • #32
Goolds said:
If the forum is not for sharing and building understanding, then what is it for? (I didn't ask for any replies to exclude mathematics).

It is for sharing and building understanding. It is not a substitute for reading books or for putting out the necessary intellectual effort on your end. Making posts like #17 without having studied the fundamentals of the subject is like expecting to be a rock star without practicing your scales.
 
  • #33
I wasn't claiming to be correct in my perception of the subject, merely stating my understanding of it. Which is, of course in violation of the PF Rules. Sorry.
 
  • #34
Goolds said:
I wasn't claiming to be correct in my perception of the subject, merely stating my understanding of it. Which is, of course in violation of the PF Rules. Sorry.

There is no rule on PF against being incorrect. I make mistakes on PF all the time. The rule is against overly speculative posts. What we're trying to get you to do is to post questions, ideas -- yes, and possibly speculations -- that are connected to your present level of understanding rather than flying so far ahead of it that they become meaningless.
 
  • #35
After consultation, the mentors have decided to close this thread. Goolds, we hope you stick around and learn from and contribute to the forum.
 

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