Trouble Understanding GRT & Space-Time Attraction

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between General Relativity (GR) and the curvature of space-time, specifically how matter distorts space-time to create gravitational attraction. Participants clarify that space-time is inherently four-dimensional, comprising three spatial dimensions and time, and emphasize the importance of visualizing space as three-dimensional to avoid confusion. The conversation also highlights the limitations of GR when applied to scenarios involving quantum mechanics, indicating a fundamental incompatibility between the two theories.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of General Relativity (GR)
  • Familiarity with the concept of space-time curvature
  • Basic knowledge of quantum mechanics
  • Ability to interpret 3D and 4D visualizations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical foundations of General Relativity
  • Explore the implications of space-time curvature on gravitational attraction
  • Study the differences between General Relativity and quantum mechanics
  • Examine visual representations of 3D space-time models
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Students of physics, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of gravity and the nature of space-time.

AmorLiberalitas
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How can the distortion of space-time by matter lead to the attraction of two objects in space? What I mean is on a 2D plane representing space-time, a 3D object representing a planet can cause the geometry of space-time to warp, and that a passing smaller 3D object will spiral around the larger because of the ripple it makes. However, what I do not understand is how the two-dimensional analogy can be transferred into the three-dimensional world that we inhabit. I guess what I am trying to say is how does the curvature relate to us, are we pulled down by earth, are we pushed down by warped space-time? Sorry if none of this made sense. . .
 
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Space-time is 4 dimensional not two dimensional: with (x,y,z and t) I think you need to see the fabric of space as 3D rather than 2D, otherwise you'll confuse yourself. It is true that GR only works if we assume a flat space in terms of acceleration and gravity, but this is not what actually happens and is one of the reasons why relativity is not compatible in certain cases with quantum mechanics.

This picture might help.

https://www.physicsforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9183&stc=1&d=1171663113

Similar questions that might help.

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=154960

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=138373&
 

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