The discussion centers on the behavior of horizontal light in an accelerating elevator, specifically whether it follows a geodesic line in a curved space or is deflected while maintaining its speed. Participants conclude that both perspectives are valid, as they represent different descriptions in distinct coordinate systems. Ultimately, the light ray adheres to a geodesic path regardless of the interpretation, affirming the principles of general relativity.
PREREQUISITESPhysicists, students of general relativity, and anyone interested in the interaction between light and acceleration in curved spacetime.
trizz10 said:When horizontal light "bends" in an accelerating elevator is it following the geodesic line of a space curved by a gravitational equivalent or is it deflected, picking up a vertical component at the expense of the horizontal, though still going c.