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The Theory of General Relativity

The theory of general relativity shows that space and time are combined into a fabric called spacetime. Gravity is the result of spacetime bending. The more massive the object, the more bent spacetime around it becomes.

Credits: Think Academy

Spacetime and how black holes affect it

Think of spacetime as a 4-dimensional fabric which makes up the universe. Why 4 dimensions, you may ask? Well, 3 dimensions in space and 1 dimension in time. Why? Well, think of it this way. You’re inviting a friend to meet somewhere. If you don’t have a time to meet, the two of you don’t know when to go. If you don’t have a place to meet, you don’t know where to go. It doesn’t make sense to have space without time. They can’t exist without each other. Which is why you combine the two.

Credits: Extraordinary Universe

Mass bends spacetime. Objects move along the bends. A black hole makes a very, very big dent. That’s why everything – even light – gets sucked in. They can’t escape the pull. That’s why we orbit the sun. It’s a balance of push and pull that makes us orbit the sun.

Credits: WTTW