Space-Time Curvature: Evidence of Mass Effect?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of space-time curvature and its relationship to massive objects, exploring both theoretical and observational evidence. Participants engage with the implications of general relativity (GR) and the nature of gravity as it relates to space-time geometry.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asserts that there is evidence of space-time curvature around massive objects.
  • Another participant mentions the observation of light from distant stars being curved around the sun during eclipses as an example of this phenomenon.
  • A different viewpoint emphasizes that the term "curved" is based on Euclidean geometry, arguing that space-time follows Riemann geometry where objects follow geodesics, which appear curved from a Euclidean perspective.
  • One participant claims that all tidal effects are evidence of space-time curvature, including the relative acceleration of satellites in free fall.
  • Another participant points out that while experiments confirm general relativity to a high degree of precision, this does not constitute evidence of curvature itself, but rather that GR provides a good description of gravity, which can also be framed in terms of Newtonian gravity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of evidence for space-time curvature, with some supporting observational claims and others questioning the interpretation of these observations. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the definitive nature of evidence for space-time curvature.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference different geometrical frameworks (Euclidean vs. Riemann) and the implications for understanding gravity and space-time, indicating a potential dependence on definitions and interpretations of curvature.

Muhammad Sabih
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There exist evidence that space time fabric can be curved arround massive objects?
 
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Yes.
 
i mean how?
can anyone explain?
 
We have observed the light from distant stars being curved around the sun during eclipses.
 
"Curved" is based on Euclidean Geometry. Space-time does not follow Euclidean geometry, it follow Riemann geometry and objects naturally follow Riemann straight lines, called geodesics, in space-time. From the reference point of Euclidean geometry, these straight lines appear curved although in their own frame, they are straight lines.

As an analogy, think of a straight line on the surface of the Earth. This forms a curve (specifically a circle).

Gravity causes things to follow geodesics so when light goes close to a massive object such as a star or a galaxy, it follows a geodesic, which in Euclidean terms appears curved.
 
Muhammad Sabih said:
There exist evidence that space time fabric can be curved arround massive objects?
All tidal effects are evidence of spacetime curvature, including the fact that satellites in free fall can accelerate relative to each other.
 
Muhammad Sabih said:
There exist evidence that space time fabric can be curved arround massive objects?
Experimenta confirm GR to a high degree of precisiom, and GR describes gravity as spacetime curvature. But that is not 'evidence that spacetime is curved', only that it offers a good description. Newtonian gravity can also be described as spacetime curvature, and GR as a massless spin-2 theory.
 

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