What's the Difference Between Gravitational Waves and Gravity Waves?

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SUMMARY

Gravitational waves and gravity waves are distinct physical phenomena caused by different mechanisms. Gravitational waves, as defined by General Relativity, relate to the curvature of spacetime and are detected by instruments like LIGO. In contrast, gravity waves, also known as gravity-capillary waves, are surface waves on liquids influenced by gravity. The confusion arises from popular science writers incorrectly using the term "gravity waves" to refer to gravitational waves, leading to misconceptions about their nature.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of General Relativity and its implications on spacetime.
  • Familiarity with wave mechanics, particularly in fluid dynamics.
  • Knowledge of LIGO and its role in detecting gravitational waves.
  • Basic concepts of surface tension and capillary action in liquids.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of General Relativity and its impact on gravitational wave detection.
  • Study the mechanics of gravity-capillary waves and their applications in fluid dynamics.
  • Explore the technology and methodologies used by LIGO for gravitational wave observation.
  • Investigate the differences between gravitational waves and gravity waves in scientific literature.
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of astrophysics, fluid dynamicists, and anyone interested in the nuances of wave phenomena in physics.

math04
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Please, I need a good books about the meaning of "Gravitational and Capillary waves "
 
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Gravitational waves are related to spacetime and notions in General Relativity.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravitational_wave
Capillary waves are surface waves on a liquid such as water which can be influenced by the Earth's gravity and are known as gravity-capillary waves:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capillary_wave
Some video footage of capillary waves and gravity waves:



The confusion comes in because popsci writers sometimes use the term gravity waves to describe the recent LIGO results. Gravity waves has nothing to do with General Relativity's gravitational waves.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravity_wave
Bottom line is gravitational waves and gravity waves are separate physical phenomena caused by different physical mechanisms with unfortunately similar names.
 

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