How can gravitons be linked to general relativity?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of gravitons as force carriers in quantum mechanics and general relativity. While general relativity states that gravity is not a force, gravitons are still present in the weak gravitational limit and are considered to be the force carriers of gravity. However, the existence of gravitons is still under debate and it is not certain if they truly exist.
  • #1
haisydinh
24
0
Hi, this might be a silly question, but it does confuse me when I read about general relativity. From what I know about quantum mechanics, a force always needs a force carrier. For example photons are force-carriers for electric or magnetic force; the so-called ‘gravitons’ are the force-carriers for gravitational force. However, general relativity states that gravity is not a force; it’s just the effects of the bending of space-time near a massive object. So why do we need the graviton at all? In other words, how can the graviton be linked to the bending of space-time?

Thank you :)
 
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  • #2
When you take GR in the weak gravitational limit (e.g., like Newtonian gravity), and quantize it ... you find these spin 2 bosons. These are what they call gravitons.

Whether or not they actually exist is another question.

But it is not quantum gravity, and it is not general relativity.
 
  • #3
Tip: if you look down at the bottom of this page, you will find a list of "Related Discussions" with the very same (or nearly same) question that you asked. This is a rather frequently asked question here.
 

1. What is the relationship between gravitons and general relativity?

The theory of general relativity explains how gravity works on a large scale, while gravitons are theoretical particles that are believed to carry the force of gravity on a quantum level. In other words, general relativity explains the effects of gravity, while gravitons are potential carriers of this force.

2. How do gravitons fit into the framework of general relativity?

In general relativity, gravity is described as the curvature of spacetime caused by the presence of mass or energy. Gravitons, on the other hand, are thought to be the particles that mediate this force between objects with mass. They are not currently included in the framework of general relativity, but their existence is still being explored through various theories and experiments.

3. Can gravitons be observed or measured?

As of now, gravitons have not been directly observed or measured. This is because they are predicted to have extremely low mass and interact very weakly with other particles, making them difficult to detect. However, scientists are working on ways to indirectly observe their effects, such as through gravitational waves.

4. How does the concept of gravitons impact our understanding of gravity?

The existence of gravitons could potentially revolutionize our understanding of gravity and the universe as a whole. If gravitons are proven to exist, it would unify the theories of general relativity and quantum mechanics, which have been difficult to reconcile. It could also provide a better understanding of the fundamental forces and particles that make up the universe.

5. Are there any experiments or research being done to study gravitons?

Yes, there are numerous experiments and research being conducted to study gravitons. One example is the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN, which is searching for evidence of gravitons by colliding particles at high energies. Other experiments are focusing on detecting gravitational waves, which could indirectly provide evidence for the existence of gravitons. Additionally, theoretical physicists continue to develop and refine theories that incorporate gravitons into our understanding of gravity.

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