Unruh effect and detectors moving in a circle

In summary, the Unruh effect is a theoretical phenomenon in quantum field theory that predicts thermal radiation when an observer is accelerating in a vacuum. It is also known as "acceleration radiation" or "Fulling-Davies-Unruh effect". When a detector moves in a circle, it constantly accelerates, leading to the prediction of thermal radiation. While the Unruh effect has not been directly observed, similar phenomena have been demonstrated in experiments. This effect challenges our understanding of quantum mechanics by suggesting that the vacuum of space is not truly empty. It also has potential applications in quantum computing and the study of particle behavior in extreme environments.
  • #1
asimov42
377
4
Hi all,

I have a question about the Unruh effect. I've read that a detector will only register the effect (i.e., the thermal bath) when the Rindler horizon is visible - in turn, a detector accelerating in a circle (changing direction but not speed) would not measure the thermal effect because no horizon is visible. Can anyone shed light on whether this is, in fact, correct?
 
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  • #2
Very intersting question, One has to do mode transformation and see if positive frequency modes transform into negetive frequency modes.
 

1. What is the Unruh effect?

The Unruh effect is a theoretical phenomenon in quantum field theory that predicts the presence of thermal radiation when an observer is accelerating in a vacuum. This effect is also known as the "acceleration radiation" or "Fulling-Davies-Unruh effect".

2. How does the Unruh effect relate to detectors moving in a circle?

When a detector is moving in a circle, it is constantly accelerating, which can lead to the prediction of thermal radiation according to the Unruh effect. This effect has been studied in the context of rotating black holes and the circular motion of charged particles.

3. Can the Unruh effect be observed experimentally?

While the Unruh effect has not yet been directly observed, there have been experiments that demonstrate similar phenomena, such as the Hawking radiation from black holes and the dynamical Casimir effect. However, due to the extremely small magnitude of the effect, it is currently difficult to observe experimentally.

4. How does the Unruh effect challenge our understanding of quantum mechanics?

The Unruh effect is significant because it suggests that the vacuum of space is not truly empty, but rather contains virtual particles that can become real particles under certain conditions. This challenges our traditional understanding of the vacuum as being completely empty, and has implications for our understanding of quantum field theory and the nature of space and time.

5. Are there any practical applications of the Unruh effect?

While the Unruh effect is currently only a theoretical concept, it has potential applications in the fields of quantum computing and quantum information. The study of the Unruh effect may also lead to a better understanding of the behavior of particles in extreme environments, such as near black holes.

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