Scientists Imagine Gravity Can Exist Without Mass

In a recent study, Richard Lieu, an astrophysicist from the University of Alabama in Huntsville, USA, presents a novel hypothesis suggesting the existence of thin, shell-like layers known as "topological defects" in the universe. These defects are proposed to generate gravity independently of any underlying mass, challenging the prevailing notion that dark matter is responsible for holding galaxies and celestial bodies together.

Lieu's primary objective is to offer an alternative solution to Einstein's field equations, which establish the relationship between the curvature of spacetime and the presence of matter within it.

Lieu's proposed solution involves the presence of shell-shaped topological defects that can manifest in highly compressed and densely packed regions of space.

Within these concentric shells, a thin layer of positive mass is enveloped by an outer layer of negative mass. The combined mass of the two layers amounts to precisely zero, as their masses counterbalance each other. Nevertheless, a star located on top of the shell experiences a significant gravitational force that draws it towards the center of the shell.

Lieu argues that the proposed shell is, at least in theory, devoid of mass. If these controversial ideas hold merit, it could potentially obviate the need for the ongoing and seemingly interminable search for dark matter.