The following is a description of an inexpensive and simple student experiment for measuring the differences between the three types of spacetime topology—Euclidean (flat), Riemann (spherical), and Lobachevskian (saddle) curvatures. It makes use of commonly available tools and materials, and requires only a small amount of construction. The experiment applies to astronomical topics such as gravity, spacetime, general relativity, as well as geometry and mathematics.

Topics
Phase transitions, Measuring instruments, General relativity, Special relativity, Geodesy, Differential geometry, Non Euclidean geometry, Riemannian geometry, Education, Budget
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© 2016 American Association of Physics Teachers.
2016
American Association of Physics Teachers
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