Is it true than general relativity can be deduced from a max

In summary, the conversation discussed the theory that general relativity can be deduced from a maximum mass density for matter. This theory was refuted and it was suggested that it originated from a "crackpot" argument. The conversation also mentioned the importance of citing sources and the thread was closed until the source can be provided.
  • #1
Garrulo
61
0
Is it true than general relativity can be deduced from a maximum mass density for matter?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Garrulo said:
Is it true than general relativity can be deduced from a maximum mass density for matter?
No!
 
  • #3
Garrulo said:
Is it true than general relativity can be deduced from a maximum mass density for matter?

What makes you think it can be? Did you read about this somewhere?
 
  • #4
PeterDonis said:
What makes you think it can be? Did you read about this somewhere?
I can imagine it was a crackpot's fault. It makes a nice crackpot argument to say Einstein used maximum principles in getting special and general theories of relativity.
 
  • #5
Threads like this one are the reason we have a rule about citing sources.

I'm closing this thread now, and will reopen it if the original poster asks me by PM to reopen it so that the source can be posted. Without that information, there's not much to say that Shyan didn't already say in #2 of the thread.
 

1. Is it true that general relativity can be deduced from a maximum principle?

Yes, it is true that general relativity can be deduced from a maximum principle. This principle, known as the principle of least action, states that the path taken by a physical system between two points is the path that minimizes the action (a measure of the system's energy) along that path. In general relativity, this principle is applied to the spacetime curvature, resulting in the famous Einstein field equations.

2. How does the maximum principle relate to general relativity?

The maximum principle is a fundamental principle in physics that is used to derive various physical laws and theories, including general relativity. It is based on the idea that nature tends to take the path of least resistance, or in this case, the path of least action. By applying this principle to the curvature of spacetime, we can derive the equations that govern the behavior of gravity.

3. Can the maximum principle be used to make predictions in general relativity?

Yes, the maximum principle can be used to make predictions in general relativity. By using this principle, we can determine the behavior of gravitational systems and make predictions about the behavior of objects in these systems. This has been confirmed through various experiments and observations, including the precession of Mercury's orbit and the bending of starlight by massive objects.

4. Are there any limitations to using the maximum principle in general relativity?

While the maximum principle has been successful in deriving general relativity and making predictions, it does have limitations. One limitation is that it does not take into account quantum effects, which are necessary for a complete understanding of gravity at the smallest scales. Additionally, the maximum principle assumes a classical, deterministic view of physics, which may not accurately describe the behavior of the universe at the quantum level.

5. How does the maximum principle differ from other principles used in physics?

The maximum principle is unique in that it is a variational principle, meaning it is based on the idea of minimizing or maximizing a quantity (in this case, action). Other principles used in physics, such as the principle of least time or the principle of least potential energy, are based on minimizing or maximizing different quantities. However, all of these principles share the common goal of describing the behavior of physical systems through fundamental principles.

Similar threads

  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
4
Views
745
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
17
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
18
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
17
Views
580
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • Special and General Relativity
2
Replies
55
Views
3K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
27
Views
776
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
7
Views
1K
Back
Top