OKay, consider this:

If 2 parallel lines fall into a black hole, will the meet (or intersect)? Since black hole squeeze space and time together, I think that the parallel line will eventually meet.

Capuchin

You don't need something as exotic as black holes - 2 parallel lines on the equator of the earth will meet at the poles. It's a result of the earth's positively curved geometry.

survivorboi

wow! thanks

Perito

Parallel lines only exist in Euclidean space. There is no concept of black holes in Euclidean space. The squeezing of space and time has not been defined in that space.

By definition, parallel lines never meet. Your hypothetical question is not possible to answer.

ngasnier

In the case of lines intesecting at the poles, then they wernt really parallel in the first place.

The very definition of "parallel" means that they dont intersect

Capuchin

You're right, but i was trying to explain it simply and perhaps muddled my terms - i meant 2 lines on the equator that initially appeared to be parallel - ie 2 lines at right angles to the equator.

Capuchin

And? The lines have to be parallel at the equator, but neither of the lines touch the equator. This is not the case i specified..

DrJ

if two lines are TRULY parallel, they will never meet or intersect each other... however, they may loop back around to meet themselves

galactus

As we know, parallel lines do not intersect in Euclidean space. But, in positively curved

spacetime, they do. In negatively curved spacetime, they get farther apart.

ZoeMarie

parallel lines must be located in the same plane. the earth is round...