Field Theory - bending of light due to

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the bending of light and its relationship with gravity and magnetic fields. Participants argue that while gravity is a force on Earth, its effect on light bending is negligible compared to atmospheric refraction caused by changing air density. Daniel asserts that the bending of light is primarily due to refraction rather than gravitational influence, while another participant introduces the concept of magnetic fields, particularly in relation to black holes. The debate highlights the complexity of light propagation in varying gravitational and magnetic environments.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of light as an electromagnetic wave
  • Basic knowledge of gravitational forces and their effects
  • Familiarity with atmospheric physics and refraction
  • Concept of magnetic fields, especially in astrophysical contexts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of light refraction in varying densities, particularly in Earth's atmosphere
  • Explore the effects of gravitational fields on light propagation, focusing on general relativity
  • Study the properties of black holes, including their magnetic fields and effects on surrounding light
  • Investigate the electromagnetic nature of light and its interaction with charged particles
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, astrophysicists, students of optics, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of light behavior in gravitational and magnetic fields.

tdunc
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Mar 29 (from my journal site)

"What we know. The force of gravity is much greater here on the face of the Earth opposed to the far upper atmosphere of our planet. Yet it is around a planet that we typically observe and associate with the bending of light. Here on the face of the Earth it Appears for the most part that light travels great distances in a straight line Contradictory to the greater force of gravity. It could be that light does in fact bend on the face of the Earth substantially (substantially more correct?) but IS IT ENOUGH to credit the bending of light to gravity? I Really question this. I could more quite easily explain the bending of light is due to not gravity but the magnetic field, which would give a reason why light travels straight here on the face of the Earth opposed to the upper atmosphere where the magnetic field has a greater influence.

Of course in any such debate on the matter the word black hole would no doubt come up trying to convince me that I am wrong. Then I guess I would ask why can't a super strong magnetic field be associate with a black hole?"
 
Physics news on Phys.org
1.Light is electromagnetic field...Charged particles and gravitational sources may affect the propagation of light...Light,being a wave,would interfere,but it's not the case in your image...
2.An electrically charged rotating black hole generates a magnetic field.

Daniel.
 
Gravity (from earth) is so miniscule in its effect on light that it can be ignored. The bending of light through the atmosphere is a refraction effect due to the change (decrease) in air density with altitude.
 

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