If light has no mass, why is it affected by gravity? General Relativity Theory

Klonusk2 minutes read

Newton explains gravity as the attraction between objects with mass, while Einstein's theory views gravity as a curvature in space-time. Einstein's theory was confirmed during a solar eclipse, showcasing gravity's effect on light bending.

Insights

  • Newton describes gravity as a force between objects based on their masses, weakening as the distance between them increases.
  • Einstein's gravity theory proposes that gravity arises from the bending of space-time, altering the path of objects, as evidenced by light bending around massive objects like stars during a solar eclipse.

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Recent questions

  • What is Newton's explanation of gravity?

    Newton explains gravity as the attraction between objects with mass, where force decreases with distance squared.

  • How does Einstein define gravity?

    Einstein's theory of gravity states that gravity is not a force but a curvature in space-time, causing objects to move.

  • What led Einstein to realize free fall equals weightlessness?

    Einstein's thought experiment with a falling man in an elevator led to the realization that free fall equals weightlessness.

  • How does acceleration in space create gravity?

    Acceleration in space creates gravity, as demonstrated by a ball falling in an accelerating lift.

  • Why can light bend in space, and how does acceleration affect it?

    Light can bend in space due to space curvature, with acceleration affecting the degree of bending.

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Summary

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Gravity: Newton to Einstein's Space-Time Curvature

  • Newton explains gravity as the attraction between objects with mass, where force decreases with distance squared.
  • Einstein's theory of gravity states that gravity is not a force but a curvature in space-time, causing objects to move.
  • Einstein's thought experiment with a falling man in an elevator led to the realization that free fall equals weightlessness.
  • Acceleration in space creates gravity, as demonstrated by a ball falling in an accelerating lift.
  • Light can bend in space due to space curvature, with acceleration affecting the degree of bending.
  • Einstein's theory was confirmed during a solar eclipse when light from a star behind the sun was visible due to gravity bending it.
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