According to Einstein's theory of general relativity, massive objects warp the fabric space-time. Instead of continuing in a linear fashion, space-time bends around them, creating curved paths that other objects must follow as they travel. That, Einstein said, is gravity.

What causes the warping of spacetime?

It is here that Einstein connected the dots to suggest that gravity is the warping of space and time. Gravity is the curvature of the universe, caused by massive bodies, which determines the path that objects travel. ... In Einstein's view of the world, gravity is the curvature of spacetime caused by massive objects.

What causes distortion in space-time?

The curvature of the warp determines its gravitational force. ... So when large masses move around or rapidly accelerate, the disturbance causes distortions in the static but warped space-time. A gravitational wave is this travelling distortion of space-time geometry itself.