Boundary between Quantum and Relativity

In summary, quantum physics and relativity are not mutually exclusive theories. In relativistic quantum field theory, both quantum and relativity are present. There is no specific point at which general relativity takes over, but rather a need to find a synthesis of the two theories. Quantum physics and relativistic quantum physics explain phenomena in the microscopic world, while relativity takes over in the macroscopic world. However, in our daily lives, both theories can give satisfactory explanations. It is a misconception that quantum mechanics and general relativity are in conflict, as they are both extensions of classical physics. The issue lies in what happens below the Planck scale, and it is possible that new theories such as string theory could take over. This could lead to
  • #1
rharrex
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At what point does quantum physics cease and general relativity take over. Where is the boundary? Is it a quantum of mass?
 
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  • #2
Quantum and Relativity is not a dichotomy. In relativistic quantum field theory you have both Quantum and Relativity.

Also there is no takeover of general relativity at some point, but the need to find a synthesis of quantum field theory and general relativity.
 
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  • #3
Quantum Physics and Relativistic Quantum Physics rule in the realm of the microscopic world where the effect of gravitational field is negligible. This means that they can give absolutely satisfying explanations of some phenomena of the microscopic world like quantum tunnelling for example, where relativity alone fails miserably.

On the other hand Relativity takes over in the realm of the macro-macroscopic world that is in the case of planets, stars, solar systems, galaxies and universe as a whole. The main reason for this is that Relativity handles the gravitational field and its effect in the curvature of space-time extremely well, while on the other side a theory of quantum gravity is plagued with many problems (its not re-normalizable as we say in quantum physics).

In between, in our daily lives here on planet earth, both quantum physics and relativity give satisfying explanations though a bit different , in the various phenomena of our daily lives like for example how mobile phones and telecommunications and computers operate. That is because these phenomena can be explained using classical physics, and because quantum physics and relativity are different extensions build on the same core of classical physics.
 
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  • #4
Everything is quantum including gravity. There is no point where one takes over - its quantum all the way.

Its a misconception that QM and GR are in conflict:
https://arxiv.org/abs/1209.3511

The issue is - what goes on below the Plank scale.

Right now who knows - QM may break down, string theory take over, we simply do not know - yet.

But up until about the Plank scale no-problemo - at least as far as I know. But its likely things will be found where its not true just like statistical mechanics and black-body radiation then we will have a new and likely swift physics revolution - it will be the time of wonder-boy physicists such as a new Einstein, Dirac, Heisenberg etc etc.

Thanks
Bill
 

FAQ: Boundary between Quantum and Relativity

What is the boundary between Quantum and Relativity?

The boundary between Quantum and Relativity is the point at which the principles and concepts of quantum mechanics (the study of matter and energy at a small scale) and general relativity (the study of gravity and the structure of the universe) overlap and cannot be reconciled.

Why is it difficult to unify Quantum and Relativity?

It is difficult to unify Quantum and Relativity because they are based on fundamentally different principles and mathematical frameworks. Quantum mechanics describes the behavior of particles at a microscopic level, while general relativity describes the behavior of large-scale objects and the structure of space-time.

What are some proposed theories for unifying Quantum and Relativity?

Some proposed theories for unifying Quantum and Relativity include string theory, loop quantum gravity, and quantum field theory. These theories attempt to reconcile the differences between the two theories by incorporating concepts from both.

What are the implications of successfully unifying Quantum and Relativity?

If Quantum and Relativity can be successfully unified, it would provide a more complete understanding of the universe and how it works. It could also potentially lead to new technologies and advancements in fields such as cosmology and particle physics.

What are some challenges in testing the boundary between Quantum and Relativity?

Some challenges in testing the boundary between Quantum and Relativity include the high energy and complex technology required to conduct experiments, as well as the difficulty in creating conditions that accurately represent the extreme environments in which these theories are applicable.

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