Planets cause a warp in the fabric of space time

In summary, the conversation discusses how objects with mass, such as stars, planets, and gas clouds, cause a warp in the fabric of space-time according to General Relativity. The participants also mention how galaxies and nebulae interact gravitationally, and how this can lead to phenomena such as the collision of the Milky Way and Andromeda galaxies. The conversation ends with one person expressing a desire to learn more about General Relativity and Special Relativity.
  • #1
vincentm
323
3
According to General Relativity the stars and planets cause a warp in the fabric of space time, right? Now, if planets' orbits are governed by the warping of the fabric of space time, then how are the gas clouds in Nebulas affecting that fabric? Also how do galaxies affect that fabric? Do they cause a warp in it also?
 
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  • #2
Everything with mass, including gas, causes a gravitational distortion proportional to that mass.
 
  • #3
Even you warp spacetime.

Galaxies, nebulae, etc. all interact gravitationally. The Milky Way and Andromeda galaxies are on a "collision" course due to their gravitational interaction.
 
  • #4
Ok thanks guys, i think i need to study up on GR and SR, there is a lot about it i don't understand yet.
 

Related to Planets cause a warp in the fabric of space time

1. How do planets cause a warp in the fabric of space time?

According to Einstein's theory of general relativity, massive objects like planets create a curvature in the fabric of space-time. This curvature causes objects to move along a curved path rather than a straight line, which is what we experience as gravity.

2. Does every planet cause a warp in space-time?

Yes, any object with mass will cause a warp in the fabric of space-time. However, the amount of warp depends on the mass of the object. The larger the mass, the greater the curvature.

3. How does the warp in space-time affect the orbit of a planet?

The warp in space-time caused by a planet affects the orbit of other objects around it, like moons or satellites. The curvature of space-time creates a gravitational pull that keeps objects in orbit around the planet.

4. Can the warp in space-time cause time to slow down?

Yes, the warp in space-time also affects time. The closer an object is to a massive planet, the slower time moves for that object. This phenomenon is known as time dilation.

5. Is the warp in space-time caused by planets permanent?

Yes, the warp in space-time is permanent as long as the planet or object is present. Even after a planet is destroyed or moves to a different location, the curvature in space-time will remain and continue to affect the movement of other objects.

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