Why don't we run out of gravitational force?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the nature of gravitational force, specifically why it does not diminish over time. Participants explore concepts related to general relativity, the curvature of spacetime, and the conservation of mass and energy.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that gravitational force arises from the curvature of spacetime caused by mass, suggesting that it cannot "run out" as it is not a finite resource.
  • Others question the premise of gravitational force running out, asking for reasons why curvature would diminish over time.
  • One participant emphasizes that since mass and energy are conserved, gravity, which results from their interaction with spacetime, also cannot be depleted.
  • A humorous remark is made about consuming mass in the context of eating cookies, which is not directly related to the scientific discussion but adds a light-hearted element.
  • Another participant jokingly mentions potential mass export fees if one were to leave Earth for Mars, further illustrating the playful tone of the conversation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that gravitational force does not run out due to the conservation of mass and energy, but the initial question about the nature of curvature and its permanence remains somewhat contested.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the nature of spacetime curvature and its relationship to gravitational force are not fully explored, and the discussion includes both serious scientific inquiry and light-hearted commentary.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in general relativity, gravitational physics, and the conceptual underpinnings of gravitational force may find this discussion relevant.

fredreload
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We know gravitational force is created from the curvature in space time by the mass of the planet, but why doesn't it run out?
 
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Why would it run out? Can you think of any reason a curvature would "run out"? If you have so please share, however if you do not then I can only advise you to revise some GR.
 
To bounce of off what Nosebgr said, gravity is the result of the curvature of spacetime, not some finite quantity that is used up over time. Since mass and energy curve spacetime, and both mass and energy are conserved, then it follows that gravity cannot be 'used up'.
 
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fredreload said:
... by the mass of the planet, but why doesn't it run out?
Because we aren't consuming the mass of the planet.
 
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A.T. said:
Because we aren't consuming the mass of the planet.
I don't know about you, but I'm about to consume the mass of about a thousand christmas cookies...
 
Drakkith said:
I don't know about you, but I'm about to consume the mass of about a thousand christmas cookies...
As long as you don't leave the planet, it is fine.
If you go to Mars, we'll have to charge mass export fees.
 
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