Gravitational waves are ripples in the fabric of spacetime caused by the acceleration or movement of massive objects. According to Einstein's general theory of relativity, massive objects, such as black holes or neutron stars, can create disturbances in spacetime that propagate outward as waves. These waves carry energy away from the source and cause a stretching and squeezing effect as they pass through space.
Yes, the Earth does experience gravitational waves. However, the gravitational waves that Earth encounters are typically extremely weak and have minuscule effects on our daily lives. The primary sources of gravitational waves that can affect Earth are distant astrophysical events, such as the merger of binary black holes or neutron stars.
On the surface level, the effects of gravitational waves are negligible because their interaction with matter is extremely weak. Gravitational waves pass through the Earth and our bodies without causing any noticeable distortions or sensations. Their impact on the human body or the environment is so small that it cannot be directly perceived or measured with our senses.
Nonetheless, the detection and study of gravitational waves have revolutionized our understanding of the universe. Gravitational wave observatories, such as the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO), have been instrumental in directly detecting these waves, providing insights into astrophysical phenomena and confirming predictions of Einstein's theory of general relativity. While the effects of gravitational waves on us at a surface level are negligible, their study has greatly advanced our knowledge of the cosmos.