Light-like Geodesic - What are the limits of integration?

In summary, the conversation is discussing a geodesic of a massless particle with a constant ##\alpha##. The equations for the geodesic are given, as well as an attempt at a solution for part (a). The conversation then moves on to discussing the limits of integration and finding a final expression, with multiple bumps and confusion along the way.
  • #1
unscientific
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Homework Statement



Consider the following geodesic of a massless particle where ##\alpha## is a constant:

[tex] \dot r = \frac{\alpha}{a(t)^2} [/tex]
[tex]c^2 \dot t^2 = \frac{\alpha^2}{a^2(t)} [/tex]

2011_B5_Q2.png

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



Part (a)
[tex]c \frac{dt}{d\lambda} = \frac{\alpha}{a}[/tex]
[tex]a dt = \frac{\alpha}{c} d\lambda [/tex]
[tex]\frac{1}{H} a = \frac{\alpha}{c} \lambda + \epsilon^{'}[/tex]
[tex]a = \frac{H}{c} \left( \alpha \lambda + \epsilon \right) [/tex]

Similarly,
[tex]r = \frac{c^2}{H^2} \left[ -\frac{1}{\alpha \lambda + \epsilon} + \delta \right] [/tex]

Part(b)
I'm confused as to what the limits of integration are. I'm not sure if this is right:

At ##t = t_0##, ##a(t_0) = 1 = \frac{H}{c} \left(\alpha \lambda + \epsilon \right)##.

At ##r = r_e## what happens to ##\delta##?
 
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Likes H Smith 94
  • #4
How do I get the final expression?
 
  • #5
bumpp
 
  • #6
bumpp anyone?
 
  • #7
bumping on light-like, limits.
 
  • #8
bumpp
 
  • #9
bumpp
 
  • #10
bumpp
 
  • #11
bumpp on last part
 
  • #12
bumpp
 
  • #13
bumpp
 
  • #14
bump
 

1. What is a light-like geodesic?

A light-like geodesic is a path that a particle with zero rest mass takes through space-time, traveling at the speed of light. It is the shortest path between two points in space-time and is a fundamental concept in the theory of relativity.

2. How is a light-like geodesic different from a regular geodesic?

A regular geodesic is the shortest path between two points in a curved space, while a light-like geodesic is the shortest path in space-time. Unlike regular geodesics, light-like geodesics are only possible for particles with zero rest mass, like photons.

3. What are the limits of integration for a light-like geodesic?

The limits of integration for a light-like geodesic are the starting and ending points of the path in space-time. These points are typically defined by the initial position and velocity of the particle.

4. How do light-like geodesics affect our understanding of space and time?

Light-like geodesics play a crucial role in the theory of relativity, as they show that the path of a particle is affected by the curvature of space-time, rather than just the force acting on it. This concept has led to a deeper understanding of the relationship between space and time.

5. Can the limits of integration for a light-like geodesic be changed?

Yes, the limits of integration for a light-like geodesic can be changed by altering the initial conditions of the particle, such as its starting position and velocity. This can result in different paths being taken through space-time and can have a significant impact on the overall trajectory of the particle.

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