Massive objects and relativistic effects

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relativistic effects of a massive object, specifically a sphere with a radius of 4 kilometers and a mass equivalent to 2 solar masses, moving towards an observer at 0.866c. In its own frame of reference, the sphere maintains a mass of 1 solar mass and a radius of 4 kilometers, with a velocity of 0. The conversation emphasizes that light escaping from such an object is not relative, as all observers agree on the paths particles take. The distinction between derived formulas related to Schwarzschild radius and the actual physics involving Einstein field equations is also highlighted as a source of confusion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of relativistic physics, specifically Einstein's theory of relativity.
  • Familiarity with Schwarzschild radius and its implications in astrophysics.
  • Knowledge of Einstein field equations and their role in general relativity.
  • Basic comprehension of geodesic equations and their significance in particle motion.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of the Schwarzschild radius in black hole physics.
  • Explore Einstein's field equations and their applications in cosmology.
  • Learn about geodesic equations and their relevance in the motion of particles in curved spacetime.
  • Investigate the effects of relativistic speeds on mass and light behavior in astrophysical contexts.
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, physicists, and students of general relativity who are interested in the behavior of massive objects and the implications of relativistic effects on light and particle motion.

Myslius
Messages
124
Reaction score
5
A sphere with the radius of 4 kilometers and a mass of 2 suns moves to observer at the speed of 0.866c. From sphere frame of reference it's mass is 1 sun's mass, radius 4 kilometers and velocity 0. Can light escape from such object? Does escaping is also relative? How about direction of light, does it matter?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
No it's not relative. All observers agree on what kind of paths particles move on. The physical object does not change even if you move with respect to it.

Here you are confusing the simple derived formulas (regarding Schwarzschild radius and all that) with the actual physics (Einstein field equations and geodesic equations). If you started from the beginning, there would be no confusion.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • · Replies 87 ·
3
Replies
87
Views
6K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K