How close are we to uniting gravity and QM

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In summary, there has been significant progress in the field of gravitational wave astronomy in regards to quantum gravity. As our technology improves, we will be able to observe the energy spectrum of colliding black holes and neutron stars, which could potentially provide evidence for the quantization of gravity. However, at this point, the unification of quantum mechanics and gravity is still beyond the observable universe and will likely take several decades to be confirmed.
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ChrisisC
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How much progression has physics made in uniting QM and gravity? Have we made any steps to unite them? have we discovered anything remotely related to it?
 
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Gravitational wave astronomy is an exciting field for quantum gravity. As they get more and more precise, we'll be able to see the exact energy spectrum released by colliding black holes and neutron stars. If gravity is quantized the same way light is, then short gravity waves should start showing us a spectrum that does not fit general relativity.
 
  • #3
ChrisisC said:
How much progression has physics made in uniting QM and gravity? Have we made any steps to unite them? have we discovered anything remotely related to it?
Imho, it's still beyond the edge of the observable universe. (I.e., measure in terms of billions of LY.) :oldfrown:

But I'd be happy to be proven wrong within the next few decades (i.e., while I'm still around to see it). :biggrin:
 

Related to How close are we to uniting gravity and QM

What is gravity and QM?

Gravity is a fundamental force that describes the attraction between objects with mass. QM, or quantum mechanics, is a branch of physics that studies the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic level.

Why do we need to unite gravity and QM?

Currently, we have two different theories - General Relativity for gravity and Quantum Field Theory for QM - that both accurately describe their respective domains but are incompatible with each other. Uniting them would create a theory of quantum gravity, which would explain the behavior of particles on all scales and potentially lead to a more complete understanding of the universe.

How close are we to uniting gravity and QM?

While there have been attempts to reconcile the two theories, such as string theory and loop quantum gravity, there is currently no widely accepted theory of quantum gravity. It is still an active area of research in physics and there is much we still do not understand about how these two fundamental forces interact.

What challenges do we face in uniting gravity and QM?

One of the main challenges is that the two theories have different mathematical frameworks that are difficult to merge. Additionally, gravity is a relatively weak force at the atomic level, making it hard to observe and study in the same way as other fundamental forces. There is also the issue of the singularity at the center of a black hole, which poses a problem for both theories.

What are the implications of uniting gravity and QM?

If we are able to successfully unite gravity and QM, it would be a major breakthrough in our understanding of the universe. It would also allow us to explore phenomena such as black holes and the Big Bang with a more complete and unified theory. It could also have practical applications, such as advancements in technology and potentially leading to a unified theory of everything.

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