Gravity Normal At Small Scales.

In summary, a recent study of gravity at the 6-20 micrometer scale has shown that it behaves according to the Newtonian expectation and has experimentally constrained any potential small scale deviations. This is a difficult test to conduct, as most experiments on fundamental interactions are done on much larger scales. To learn more, visit the NPL website and read their review article on different methods for conducting these experiments, which often utilize casimir forces.
  • #1
ohwilleke
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A study of gravity at the 6-20 micrometer scale has found it to behave normally and experimentally constrained the scale of any small scale deviation from the Newtonian expectation.

http://www.arxiv.org/abs/hep-ph/0508204

Hat tip to Motl for noting the paper.
 
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  • #2
Isn't it amazing how difficult it is to test gravity at not-so-extreme limits? I've always thought so. 6-20 micrometers is enormous compared to most scales at which we test fundamental interactions. Kinda reminds me of the Planck mass.
 
  • #3
If you want to learn more about these sorts of experiments *and they are really cool IMO* check out this page

http://www.npl.washington.edu/eotwash/

and for instance a review article on various ways of doing this experiment

http://www.npl.washington.edu/eotwash/pdf/review.pdf

Basically all these experiments are like the famous Cavendish experiment in one shape or another. The more modern versions now use casimir forces to measure the deviation.
 
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1. What is the definition of gravity at small scales?

Gravity at small scales refers to the gravitational force between objects on a microscopic level, such as between atoms and particles.

2. How does gravity behave at small scales?

At small scales, gravity is described by the laws of quantum mechanics, which differ from the classical laws of gravity that govern larger objects. This means that gravity at small scales can behave differently than what we experience in our everyday lives.

3. Can gravity be observed at small scales?

Yes, gravity at small scales has been observed and studied through experiments in particle accelerators and studies of subatomic particles.

4. How does gravity at small scales affect the universe?

While the effects of gravity at small scales may seem insignificant compared to the large-scale effects of gravity, it plays a crucial role in the formation and behavior of subatomic particles, which ultimately contribute to the structure and evolution of the universe.

5. Is there a theory that explains gravity at small scales?

Currently, there is no widely accepted theory that fully explains gravity at small scales. The search for a unified theory of quantum gravity is ongoing and is considered one of the biggest challenges in modern physics.

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