The Supermassive Podcast

What is Gravity?

Apr 24, 2025
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INSIGHT

Gravity as Curved Space-Time

  • Gravity is the curvature of the fabric of space-time caused by mass, not a force pulling objects together.
  • Massive objects bend space-time, and what we feel as gravity is the motion within this curved space-time.
INSIGHT

Newton vs Einstein on Gravity

  • Newton described gravity mathematically but didn't understand its fundamental source.
  • Einstein's theory shows Newton's laws are a special case of gravity in mild conditions.
ADVICE

Use Gravity Slingshots in Spaceflight

  • Use gravitational slingshots by orbiting planets to accelerate spacecraft and save fuel.
  • Align planetary flybys carefully to gain speed without extra fuel, enabling cheaper long-distance missions.
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