Gravity well (physics): Difference between revisions
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{{SeeWikipedia|Gravity Well}} | |||
In physics, a '''gravity well''' is the [[wikipedia:gravitational potential|gravitational potential]] field around a massive body (a particular kind of [[Wikipedia:potential well|potential well]]). Physical models of gravity wells are sometimes used to illustrate [[wikipedia:orbital mechanics|orbital mechanics]]. Gravity wells are frequently confused with [[Wikipedia:general relativity|general relativistic]] [[Wikipedia:embedded diagram|embedding diagram]]s, but the two concepts are unrelated.<ref>[[Wikipedia:Gravity Well|Wikipedia]]</ref> | |||
Large objects can generate gravitational fields that extend far into space. Consequently, human [[slipspace]] navigation is hindered by the effect these gravity wells have upon the quantum field of the Slipstream, and ships must make their calculations away from such factors. With an increased resolution of the Slipstream, such as that possessed by Forerunner and, consequently, Covenant slipspace matrices, calculations can be made to compensate for this effect.<ref>''[[Halo: First Strike]]''</ref> | |||
The gravity well of an artificial star within a small [[Shield World]] was used to accelerate the {{UNSCShip|Spirit of Fire}}, unable to use its FTL reactor, to safety after creating a chain reaction and sending the star into its [[supernova]] state.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]''</ref> | |||
==References== | |||
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[[Category:Physics]] |
Revision as of 03:28, March 19, 2009
Template:SeeWikipedia In physics, a gravity well is the gravitational potential field around a massive body (a particular kind of potential well). Physical models of gravity wells are sometimes used to illustrate orbital mechanics. Gravity wells are frequently confused with general relativistic embedding diagrams, but the two concepts are unrelated.[1]
Large objects can generate gravitational fields that extend far into space. Consequently, human slipspace navigation is hindered by the effect these gravity wells have upon the quantum field of the Slipstream, and ships must make their calculations away from such factors. With an increased resolution of the Slipstream, such as that possessed by Forerunner and, consequently, Covenant slipspace matrices, calculations can be made to compensate for this effect.[2]
The gravity well of an artificial star within a small Shield World was used to accelerate the UNSC Spirit of Fire, unable to use its FTL reactor, to safety after creating a chain reaction and sending the star into its supernova state.[3]