Relativity: Space & Time on a Tempurpedic Mattress?

In summary, the conversation discusses the visualization of spacetime in relativity. It is compared to placing an object on a stretchable fabric, where the object bends the fabric like a planet or star would bend real space. The concept of manipulating time through extremely massive objects like black holes is also mentioned. Then, the idea of representing spacetime as a tempurpedic mattress with a sheet over it, with the mattress representing space and the sheet representing time, is proposed. However, it is noted that this may not be a valid visualization as it is not possible to visualize curved 3 dimensions in a 3D diagram. Instead, it is suggested to visualize curved 2 dimensions, with the sheet representing space and the dent representing time
  • #1
Miket123
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In relativity spacetime is usually visualized by placing something on a stretchable fabric of some sort. The object placed on the fabric will bend the fabric, just as a planet or star would in real space. Time can be manipulated when something extremely massive like a black hole is in space. But I was thinking, and please tell me if this could work with relativity, so think of spacetime as a tempurpedic mattress. If I understand relativity correctly usually spacetime would be represented with just a mattress with nothing on it, and when you place an object on it it bends "spacetime". But is it possible that spacetime is actually the tempurpedic mattress with a sheet over it, with the mattress representing space and the sheet representing time or the other way around. If this were possible wouldn't you then be able to manipulate time without changing space which would mean you would not need a very massive object. I am not sure if this is just a stupid question, its just a thought and please let me know what you think.
 
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  • #2
Miket123 said:
with the mattress representing space and the sheet representing time or the other way around.
The sheet with a dent represents space (2 dimensions of it). Time is not there at all. You cannot visualize curved 3 dimensions (2 space + time) by embedding them in a 3D diagram. But you can embed curved 2 dimensions:
2 space : the sheet with a dent
1 space + time : http://www.adamtoons.de/physics/gravitation.swf
 

1. What is the concept of relativity in relation to space and time?

The concept of relativity in physics refers to the idea that measurements of space and time are relative to the observer's frame of reference. This means that the perception of space and time can vary for different observers depending on their relative motion and gravitational fields.

2. How does a Tempurpedic mattress affect the concept of relativity?

A Tempurpedic mattress is made of a special material that conforms to the body's shape and weight, providing support and comfort. This can affect the concept of relativity by altering the perception of space and time for the person lying on the mattress. The material may change the distribution of the person's body weight, which can affect their perception of gravity and their frame of reference.

3. Can a Tempurpedic mattress create a curvature in space-time?

While a Tempurpedic mattress may change the perception of gravity and frame of reference for the person lying on it, it does not have enough mass or density to create a significant curvature in space-time. The effects of the mattress are limited to the individual's immediate surroundings and do not have a significant impact on the larger concept of space-time.

4. Are there any scientific studies on the relationship between a Tempurpedic mattress and relativity?

There have been studies on the effects of different materials on the perception of gravity and space-time, but there is no specific research on the relationship between a Tempurpedic mattress and relativity. The effects of the mattress on relativity are likely too small and localized to be measured through scientific experiments.

5. Does lying on a Tempurpedic mattress affect the experience of time dilation?

Time dilation is a phenomenon predicted by the theory of relativity, where time can appear to pass slower for objects in motion or in a strong gravitational field. While lying on a Tempurpedic mattress may change the perception of gravity, the effects are not significant enough to cause a measurable difference in the experience of time dilation.

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