Spacetime Diagram of Binary Star System - Get Visuals & Info

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the visualization of a spacetime diagram for a binary star system, exploring how the orbits of the stars can be represented in a three-dimensional space-time framework. The conversation includes requests for visual representations and explanations of the underlying concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the appearance of a spacetime diagram for a binary star system, expressing interest in visual aids.
  • Another participant suggests that the diagram would resemble a double-helix structure, indicating a specific interpretation of the orbital dynamics.
  • A follow-up question seeks clarification on the reasoning behind the double-helix conclusion.
  • A participant explains that the stars orbit a common center of mass, and their elliptical orbits, when represented in a spacetime diagram, would appear as spirals when time is added as an axis.
  • There is a repeated suggestion that the diagram could be visualized as a double-helix, with a request for further elaboration on this representation.
  • A link to an external resource is provided for additional context, inviting others to extend the discussion to the specific case of binary stars.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present differing interpretations of how to visualize the spacetime diagram, with no consensus reached on a definitive representation or explanation.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the assumptions regarding the specific characteristics of the orbits or the implications of representing them in a spacetime framework.

blumfeld0
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Hi. Does anyone know what the spacetime diagram of a binary star system would look like? thanks
pic would be great

blumfeld0
 
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With 2 space axes (corresponding to the orbital plane) and 1 time axis, it would look roughly like a double-helix (like a DNA spiral).
 
Thanks for your reply. How do you come to that conclusion?
thanks again

blumfeld0
 
Well, the two stars orbit around a common centre of mass. Their orbits are elliptical and periodic. If you graph the orbits without the time axis, you get two overlapping ellipses. Adding time as another axis turns the ellipses into spirals.

How much do you know about spacetime diagrams?
 
James R said:
With 2 space axes (corresponding to the orbital plane) and 1 time axis, it would look roughly like a double-helix (like a DNA spiral).
like this?
ss4.GIF
 

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