Space Time Field: Effects of Mass & Orbit Equilibrium

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of the space-time field and its interaction with mass, particularly how mass influences the bending of space-time akin to orbits. The analogy of satellite orbits and electron behavior is explored, emphasizing the need for sufficient energy to maintain an orbit. Key points include the distinction between classical and quantum mechanics, specifically that electrons do not have defined orbits around a nucleus. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding gravitational interactions and the continuous nature of possible orbits in a gravitational field.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of general relativity and its principles
  • Familiarity with classical mechanics and orbital dynamics
  • Basic knowledge of quantum mechanics and electron behavior
  • Concept of energy-mass equivalence (E=mc²)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of general relativity and space-time curvature
  • Study orbital mechanics and the factors affecting satellite trajectories
  • Explore quantum mechanics, focusing on electron behavior and wave functions
  • Investigate the concept of energy-mass equivalence and its implications in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in the fundamental interactions of mass and energy within the framework of general relativity and quantum mechanics.

sambogrub
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So I was thinking about the space time field and trying to wrap my head around how it is actually bent around a mass.
Has anyone thought of thinking about the bending of space time around a mass like multiple orbits? Almost like in the way we describe the orbits of an electron around a nucleus? Like a satellite has to have a specific amount of energy, easiest way to describe this is in motion, to stay in an orbit around a large mass, if it doesn't it falls to the next orbit and so on. Since we do not have enough energy, I.e. Not moving fast enough, we fall to the earth. But if something moves fast enough, it will skip to the next orbit up.
This is the most simple way I have thought of it. Obviously it will have to include the mass of the satellite and most likely the mass of the large object. And I think if I can take it even further, it actually has to find equilibrium as a system. Such as the mass of the large object has to expressed in terms of energy and that has to equal the total energy in the satellite, meaning the mass in terms of energy and the energy added to it in some form such as movement.
I even want to find if, since all mass is really mostly energy and has only a fraction of solid mass, i.e. subatomic particles, that energy is what affects the space time field. I mean we say that mass affects it, but we really don't know how right?
I'm not as educated on these subjects but I do like to postulate them sometimes and try to figure out things no one else has.
 
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sambogrub said:
Has anyone thought of thinking about the bending of space time around a mass like multiple orbits? Almost like in the way we describe the orbits of an electron around a nucleus?

Actual observations of orbiting bodies show that that's not how it works. Not only are the possible orbits continuous, but regardless of the energy of the satellite, whether it "falls to ground" or not depends more than anything else on whether its elliptical orbit around the center of mass of the system intersects the surface.

Also be aware that electrons do not have orbits around the nucleus in the way that you're thinking - that notion was replaced with the development of quantum mechanics almost a century ago.
 

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