Varying Fine Structure Constant - Any recent results?

In summary, the conversation discusses recent results and articles regarding the claim made by Webb et al. on spatial variation of the fine structure constant. It also questions whether these variations in the past have any implications for the current state of the constant and whether there are multiple models that can explain the data. Additionally, the conversation touches on the potential connection between a change in the fine structure constant and vacuum energy density.
  • #1
asimov42
377
4
Hi all,

I was wondering if there have been any recent (i.e., in the last 10'ish months) results / articles which either support or refute the claim made by Webb et al. in the article "Evidence for spatial variantion of the fine structure constant"? http://arxiv.org/abs/1008.3907

Also, if one believes the Webb et al. result, does looking at spatial variations in the past say anything about how the 'constant' might be changing now? Or are there many models with different variations which would fit the data?

Thanks in advance from a layman.

J.
 
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  • #2
And on a related note, would a change in the fine structure constant imply a change in the vacuum energy density?
 
  • #3

1. What is the fine structure constant?

The fine structure constant, denoted by α, is a fundamental physical constant that describes the strength of the electromagnetic interaction between charged particles. It is approximately equal to 1/137 and plays a crucial role in many areas of physics, including atomic and molecular physics, quantum electrodynamics, and cosmology.

2. How does the fine structure constant vary?

The fine structure constant is believed to be a constant value in our universe. However, some theories, such as string theory and loop quantum gravity, suggest that it may vary in different regions of space or over time. Experimental evidence for such variations is still inconclusive.

3. What are some recent results regarding the varying fine structure constant?

In recent years, there have been several studies that have attempted to test the constancy of the fine structure constant. One study in 2019 found no evidence for variation in the constant over a span of 12 billion years, while another study in 2020 reported a possible variation in the constant in the early universe. However, more research is needed to confirm these results.

4. What implications would a varying fine structure constant have on our understanding of physics?

If the fine structure constant were found to vary significantly, it would challenge our current understanding of the laws of physics and could potentially lead to the development of new theories. It could also have implications for the stability of matter and the evolution of the universe.

5. How do scientists measure the fine structure constant?

There are several methods used to measure the fine structure constant, including precision experiments on atomic spectra and electron behavior, as well as cosmological observations of the early universe. These measurements are often challenging and require sophisticated techniques and equipment.

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