Aether Experiments: What's Your Take?

In summary, the conversation discusses two experiments posted on a personal website that aim to determine the existence and properties of the aether. However, the validity of the experiments is questioned as they do not provide a published reference and mainly describe how to build a vacuum chamber. It is suggested to refer to a Wikipedia article on aether theories for more information.
  • #1
user1
2
0
What are your opinions about these two experiments described at: http://adsind.wordpress.com? Can they be used to reject some of the aether theories?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Do you have a published reference? (A personal website is not an acceptable reference.)
 
  • #3
No. The experiments are posted only on that website. I was interested to know what people on these forums think about the experiments.
 
  • #4
I get the impression that the person who wrote that is not even clear what the question is. Both of those experiments seem to be aimed at determining, not whether the "aether" exists but whether it has properties, such as pressure, etc. of material "objects". It seems to me that most, if not all, physicists today accept that "light" is a wave in the electro-magnetic field so that the "either", not any material substance.
 
  • #5
"The cavity created inside the piston system should be free of aether since we assumed that aether does not pass through high density metals. We assume that the entire system is perfectly built and sealed so that there is no gap between exterior of the cube and the inside cavity. The cavity can be better sealed from the exterior if we submerse the entire piston system into mercury."

The author uses a mercury barometer to create a "vacuum" which excludes the aether ... because the aether cannot pass through heavy metals.

No, I don't think that this would accomplish any of the stated goals. Most of the "writing" is simply a detailed description of how to build a not-so-good vacuum chamber. The author seems to view the "aether" as a liquid or gas which can be excluded from here, or captured there ...

I suggest you read this instead: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aether_theories
 
  • #6
That should answer your question. I am locking this thread because there is not a published reference for this experiment.
 

1. What is the purpose of Aether Experiments?

The purpose of Aether Experiments is to study and better understand the concept of aether, which was once believed to be a substance that filled the void of space and served as a medium for the propagation of light. These experiments aim to gather evidence and data that can either support or disprove the existence of aether.

2. What are some examples of Aether Experiments?

Some examples of Aether Experiments include the Michelson-Morley experiment, which attempted to detect the motion of Earth through aether, and the Sagnac experiment, which tested for the influence of aether on the interference of light. Other experiments involve measuring the speed of light in different directions and studying the properties of electromagnetic waves.

3. What have Aether Experiments revealed so far?

So far, Aether Experiments have not provided conclusive evidence for the existence of aether. The results of these experiments have consistently shown that the speed of light is constant and independent of the observer's reference frame, contradicting the idea of a medium like aether that can affect the propagation of light. However, some scientists still believe that further experiments and research are needed to fully understand the concept of aether.

4. How have Aether Experiments impacted our understanding of physics?

Aether Experiments have played a significant role in shaping our understanding of physics. Although these experiments have not proven the existence of aether, they have led to the development of Einstein's theory of relativity, which revolutionized our understanding of space, time, and gravity. Aether Experiments have also helped to validate the principles of the scientific method and the importance of empirical evidence in scientific inquiry.

5. Are there any ongoing Aether Experiments?

Yes, there are ongoing Aether Experiments being conducted by scientists around the world. These experiments continue to test different aspects of the aether concept and seek to further our understanding of the fundamental laws of physics. With advancements in technology and new methods of experimentation, it is possible that these ongoing experiments may provide new insights into the concept of aether and its role in the universe.

Similar threads

B Implications of negative Michelson-Morley result
    • Special and General Relativity
Replies
11
Views
77
Unseen force debated,Amateur seeks proof of aether,Open minds unite.
    • New Member Introductions
Replies
3
Views
100
B How are 'fringe shifts' in the Michelson-Morley experiment calculated?
    • Special and General Relativity
Replies
9
Views
701
I Michelson-Morley: Errors in Calculations?
    • Special and General Relativity
Replies
6
Views
2K
B Expanding Space in the Lab: Investigating the Possibilities
    • Classical Physics
Replies
10
Views
2K
I What causes time dilation and length contraction
    • Special and General Relativity
Replies
10
Views
500
B Help with science experiment magnets/force/acceleration/speed
    • Classical Physics
Replies
6
Views
430
I Gravitational Waves Vs. Aether Wind
    • Special and General Relativity
Replies
3
Views
1K
A Thought Experiment: Aether Medium
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
6
Views
925
I Child's experiment to weigh air
    • Classical Physics
2
Replies
59
Views
3K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top