A Thermodynamic Interpretation of Gravitational Curvature via Entropy-Decay Gradients

This work presents a thermodynamic interpretation of gravitational curvature, proposing that gravity arises from persistent entropy-decay gradients rather than a fundamental force. Within this framework, curvature acts as a structural constraint, while gravitational weight and inertia emerge as reactive responses when motion is restricted relative to this background. The approach unifies inertial and gravitational mass as manifestations of the same underlying resistance of matter to deviation from curvature-defined motion. Free fall and orbital motion are interpreted as unconstrained trajectories, explaining the absence of locally experienced gravitational force. This study is interpretive and does not modify the equations of general relativity. Instead, it provides a conceptual framework that situates gravitational phenomena within irreversible thermodynamics, offering a structural explanation for weight, inertia, and the non-shieldable nature of gravity.