Thought experiments about Gravitational Waves

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on thought experiments regarding gravitational waves and their detection in hypothetical scenarios involving mass disappearing or appearing from nothing. Participants explore whether a single gravitational wave pulse would be detected in these scenarios and the implications of a charge appearing from nothing on electromagnetic wave propagation. The conversation highlights the intersection of theoretical physics and the nature of gravitational and electromagnetic fields.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational waves and their detection mechanisms.
  • Familiarity with the principles of general relativity.
  • Knowledge of electromagnetic fields and wave propagation.
  • Basic concepts of theoretical physics and thought experiments.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the detection methods for gravitational waves, specifically LIGO and Virgo observatories.
  • Study the principles of general relativity and its implications for mass-energy interactions.
  • Explore the behavior of electromagnetic fields in vacuum and their wave characteristics.
  • Investigate theoretical physics concepts related to mass-energy creation and annihilation.
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of theoretical physics, and anyone interested in the implications of gravitational and electromagnetic theories in modern physics.

bubal
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Imagine a mass that disappeared from space. I know that it is impossible, but imagine it is sucked by a wormhole or it just disapperars.

Will we detect ONE gravitational wave only? Like a pulse and nothing else?
Now the other way around. A mass appears from nothing.

Then we will detect one gravitational wave equal to the previous but in inverse phase (180º)?

Other question that I have is what happens if a charge appears from nothing in space (thought experiment, of course). The electric field from that charge expands in the form of an electromagnetic wave or simply an expanding electric field?

Thank you very much!.

Simon.
 
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bubal said:
Other question that I have is what happens if a charge appears from nothing in space (thought experiment, of course).

How is this allowed within our current physics?

Zz.
 
What color is an invisible unicorn?
 

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