Positive Energy Theorem Explained in Layman Terms

In summary, the Positive Energy Theorem is a theorem in general relativity that states that the total energy of a closed system, including both matter and gravitational energy, is always positive or zero. This means that the energy density of the system must be positive everywhere. The dominant energy condition is a specific energy condition in general relativity that requires the energy density of a system to be positive and the energy flux to be causally time-like. It differs from other energy conditions, such as the strong and weak energy conditions, in that it is more restrictive. This concept is discussed in most GR textbooks, including a free-to-download textbook by bcrowell, and can also be found on Wikipedia.
  • #1
windy miller
301
25
Can anyone explain what the positive energy theorem is layman terms ?
 
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  • #2
What do you mean by "layman terms"? I mean what do you expect as an answer? I suppose the wiki article is not what you are looking for?
 
  • #3
Moderator's note: Moved thread to the relativity forum.
 
  • #4
PeterDonis said:
Moderator's note: Moved thread to the relativity forum.
thanks
 
  • #5
martinbn said:
What do you mean by "layman terms"? I mean what do you expect as an answer? I suppose the wiki article is not what you are looking for?
Well maybe we could start with a physical interpretation of the dominant energy condition, what is that and how does it differ from the other strong and the week energy condition?
 
  • #6
windy miller said:
maybe we could start with a physical interpretation of the dominant energy condition, what is that and how does it differ from the other strong and the week energy condition?

Where have you tried to look for this information already? Have you looked in any textbooks? Most of the standard GR textbooks discuss the energy conditions and what they mean physically.

Even Wikipedia's discussion is not too bad as a starting point:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energy_condition
 
  • #8

1. What is the Positive Energy Theorem?

The Positive Energy Theorem is a mathematical concept in physics that states that the total energy of a closed system must be positive or zero. This means that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted.

2. How does the Positive Energy Theorem relate to everyday life?

The Positive Energy Theorem is a fundamental principle in physics that helps us understand the behavior of energy in our world. It explains why energy cannot be created out of nothing and why we must conserve and use it wisely.

3. Can you explain the Positive Energy Theorem in simpler terms?

Sure, the Positive Energy Theorem simply means that the total amount of energy in a system cannot be negative. This is because energy is a fundamental property of matter and cannot be less than zero.

4. Why is the Positive Energy Theorem important?

The Positive Energy Theorem is important because it helps us understand the fundamental laws of energy and how it behaves in our universe. It also has practical applications in fields such as cosmology, thermodynamics, and quantum mechanics.

5. Is the Positive Energy Theorem a proven concept?

Yes, the Positive Energy Theorem has been extensively studied and tested in various scientific experiments and has been found to hold true in all cases. It is considered a fundamental principle in physics and is widely accepted by the scientific community.

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