General Relativity

General relativity is a theory proposed by Albert Einstein that describes how gravity works. It explains that massive objects like planets and stars warp the fabric of space and time, causing objects to move along curved paths, which we perceive as gravity.

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When was it discovered?

General relativity, developed by Albert Einstein in 1915, shows that gravity is caused by massive objects bending space and time. This bending changes how objects move, which we experience as gravity. For example, Earth orbits the Sun because it moves along the curved space created by the Sun's mass. The theory also explains how light bends around massive objects and how time slows down near strong gravity. Many experiments and observations have confirmed its predictions.

How does it help us?


General relativity explains how gravity works by showing that massive objects like stars and planets bend space and time around them. This bending affects how objects move and how light travels. The theory is essential for GPS technology because it helps correct for the time differences caused by Earth's gravity, ensuring accurate location information. It also helps scientists understand and predict the behavior of black holes, the expansion of the universe, and the bending of light around massive objects. By using this theory, we gain better insights into the structure and dynamics of the cosmos. Overall, general relativity is fundamental to our understanding of both everyday and cosmic phenomena.

So, only mass effects time?

In general relativity, mass and energy affect both space and time. Massive objects, like planets and stars, bend the fabric of spacetime around them. This bending changes how objects move and how time passes. For example, time runs slightly slower near a massive object compared to farther away. So, mass influences not just space, but also the way time behaves. This helps explain why gravity affects both the movement of objects and the flow of time.

Recap

01

What is General Relativity?

Gravity is space and time bending around massive objects.

02

Who discovered it?

Albert Einstein developed general relativity in 1915.

03

How can it help us?

General relativity improves GPS accuracy, helps us understand cosmic phenomena, and aids in space exploration.