Was gravitational length contraction predicted by general theory of relativity ?

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SUMMARY

Gravitational length contraction was indeed predicted by the general theory of relativity, as confirmed by Albert Einstein in his writings. Specifically, he noted that a rod aligned with a gravitational field appears shortened, while its length remains unaffected when positioned tangentially. This phenomenon is detailed in the English translation found on page 196-197 of Einstein's work. Additionally, Einstein's prediction of gravitational time dilation is highlighted as having more practical applications.

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manvirsingh
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I have read somewhere about the phenomenon called gravitational length contraction.Was gravitational length contraction predicted by general theory of relativity?
 
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You have to define how you are measuring the length of a distant object.
 
manvirsingh said:
I have read somewhere about the phenomenon called gravitational length contraction.Was gravitational length contraction predicted by general theory of relativity?
Yes, and you can read it here (English translation p.196-197:
http://web.archive.org/web/20060829045130/http://www.Alberteinstein.info/gallery/gtext3.html

In particular he concludes there:

- that the "rod thus appears a little shortened [..] by the presence of the gravitational field, if the rod is laid along a radius", and
- that "the gravitational field [..] has no influence on the length of a rod" in the tangential position.

PS: of more practical use was his prediction of gravitational time dilation, which he explains next.

Harald
 
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