TED: How LIGO discovered gravitational waves -- and what might be next | Gabriela González

The video explains Einstein's theory of general relativity and its revolutionary explanation of gravity. It discusses the concept of gravitational waves, their discovery in 2015, and the technology used to measure them. The significance of these waves in understanding the universe and the potential for future research is highlighted.

What did Einstein's theory of general relativity propose about gravity?

• Gravity is caused by the curvature of space-time.

• Gravity is a result of electromagnetic forces.

• Gravity is a force that acts at a distance.

• Gravity is an illusion caused by motion.

What analogy is used to describe the effect of masses on space-time?

• A balloon being inflated

• A mattress being deformed

• A stone skipping on water

• A ball rolling down a hill

What did Einstein predict in 1916 regarding gravitational waves?

• They would be easily detectable.

• They would only affect small objects.

• They would never be measurable.

• They would be visible to the naked eye.

What technology is used to detect gravitational waves?

• Microscopes

• Interferometers

• Seismographs

• Telescopes

What is the significance of having two gravitational wave detectors?

• To increase the detection range

• To confirm signals are from space

• To measure sound waves

• To detect electromagnetic waves

What significant event was confirmed by the first detection of gravitational waves?

• The formation of a new star

• The explosion of a supernova

• The merging of two black holes

• The collision of two galaxies

What was the size of the change in distance caused by the first detected gravitational wave?

• The length of a football field

• The width of a human hair

• The diameter of an atom

• Four thousandths of a proton

How do gravitational waves help us explore the universe?

• By letting us travel faster than light

• By providing energy for space travel

• By allowing us to see distant stars

• By enabling us to hear cosmic events

What new capability do gravitational waves provide to astronomers?

• The ability to predict future cosmic events

• The ability to communicate with distant galaxies

• The ability to detect invisible cosmic events

• The ability to see through solid objects

What future discoveries are anticipated with gravitational wave astronomy?

• The mapping of the entire universe

• The detection of neutron star mergers

• The discovery of new planets

• The observation of alien life