What Happens to a Stationary Bowling Ball in an Expanding Universe?

  • Thread starter DARKSYDE
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In summary, according to Einstein's theory of relativity, there is no such thing as being "truly stationary" in the universe. Everything is in motion relative to something else and there are no absolute reference frames. Therefore, it is not possible for a bowling ball to remain truly stationary in an expanding universe. However, we can still use various objects in the universe as reference points for defining our own motion and determining how fast we are traveling relative to them. Ultimately, any notion of being stationary is relative and not absolute.
  • #1
DARKSYDE
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what would happen to a bowling ball if it were to remain truly stationary in a region of space in an expanding universe? assume the experiment will compensate any effect of gravity.
 
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  • #2
The problem is, there is no such thing as 'truly stationary'. Einstein states that there is no absolute state of rest--no privileged reference frames. Hence, everything in the universe is in motion, relative to something else.
 
  • #3
...and everything in the universe is also at rest.
 
  • #4
"no privileged reference frames"

I believe we could use lots of things in the universe for reference. Pulsars, background microwave radiation, etc. and as far as stationary, i do mean relative to our motion. we do know how fast our solar system is traveling as well as our galaxy.
 
  • #5
DARKSYDE said:
I believe we could use lots of things in the universe for reference. Pulsars, background microwave radiation, etc.
Absolutely - you can use anything you want. I prefer to always define myself as stationary. It's usually easier that way. And it makes me feel special!
and as far as stationary, i do mean relative to our motion. we do know how fast our solar system is traveling as well as our galaxy.
We know how fast our solar system is traveling with respect to some objects and vice versa: we know how fast they are traveling relative to us. Either can be considered moving or stationary and neither is an absolute or "priveleged" selection. All - ALL motion is relative.

So to answer your intial question, you can just go to a bowling alley and have a look at what the bowling balls on the racks are doing! Not much of anything, I suspect...
 
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1. What is the difference between a prediction and a hypothesis?

A prediction is a statement about what is likely to happen in the future based on observations and data. It is testable and can be proven to be true or false. A hypothesis, on the other hand, is an educated guess or explanation for a phenomenon that has not yet been proven. It is used as a starting point for further investigation and can be supported or rejected by evidence.

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