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What is spacetime?

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Quick answer

Spacetime is the idea that space and time are woven into a single four-dimensional fabric, rather than being separate. Einstein showed that massive objects curve this fabric, and that curvature is what we experience as gravity. It unites the three dimensions of space with time into one structure.

Key things to understand

  1. It unites the three dimensions of space with time into one structure.
  2. Einstein's relativity treats them as inseparable.
  3. Mass and energy curve spacetime.
  4. Objects follow that curvature — which we feel as gravity.
  5. It explains effects like time running slower near strong gravity.

People also ask

What is spacetime?
A combined four-dimensional fabric of space and time; in relativity they can't be treated separately, and mass bends this fabric.
How is spacetime related to gravity?
Mass and energy curve spacetime, and what we experience as gravity is objects following that curved geometry.
Does time really slow down near gravity?
Yes — clocks tick measurably slower in stronger gravity, a confirmed prediction of general relativity called time dilation.