Space expansion, gravity waves, warp

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of faster-than-light travel through the use of a theoretical warp drive. While gravity waves are said to propagate at the speed of light, it is questioned why the warp drive would be limited to this speed. The conversation also references real-world research being done in this field, including NASA's discussion of creating a warp bubble in a lab and the theoretical Alcubierre drive. The validity of the Star Trek warp drive is also mentioned.
  • #1
Edi
177
1
If gravity waves are supposed to propagate at c, how could the theoretical warp drive wave propagate at greater than c values?
I have heard and red and understand that space itself can expand (and warp? ) faster than c and, in fact, that will happen in the future when space in between galaxy's will be expanding faster than c and the galaxy's will disappear from our observable universe, but, in that case, why would gravity waves only propagate at c ?
 
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  • #2
What "theoretical warp drive wave"? Can you give us a reference or link?
 
  • #5
Sorry, but Star Trek is fiction.
 

Related to Space expansion, gravity waves, warp

What is space expansion and how does it occur?

Space expansion is the phenomenon where the distance between objects in space is increasing over time. This occurs due to the expansion of the universe itself. The theory of general relativity explains that the fabric of space-time is curved and the expansion of the universe causes this curvature to stretch, resulting in the increase in distance between objects.

What are gravity waves and how are they detected?

Gravity waves, also known as gravitational waves, are ripples in the fabric of space-time caused by the acceleration of massive objects. They were first predicted by Albert Einstein in his theory of general relativity. These waves are detected using highly sensitive instruments, such as laser interferometers, which measure tiny changes in the distance between objects caused by passing gravity waves.

Can space-time be warped and if so, what does this mean?

According to the theory of general relativity, space-time can be warped or distorted by the presence of massive objects, like stars and planets. This means that the fabric of space-time is not a fixed and rigid structure, but rather it can be influenced by the mass and energy of objects. This warping of space-time also explains the phenomenon of gravity.

How does gravity affect space expansion?

Gravity plays a crucial role in the expansion of space. On a large scale, the force of gravity between massive objects, like galaxies, can counteract the expansion of space and cause these objects to move towards each other. On a smaller scale, the force of gravity between particles and atoms can also resist the expansion of space, allowing objects to maintain their shape and size.

Is it possible to travel faster than the speed of light by warping space-time?

According to our current understanding of physics, it is not possible to travel faster than the speed of light, even by warping space-time. The theory of general relativity allows for the warping of space-time, but it still obeys the universal speed limit of the speed of light. This means that while space and time can be distorted, the speed of light remains the fastest possible speed in the universe.

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