Casimir effect: threshhold distance?

In summary, the Casimir effect is a physical phenomenon where two uncharged parallel plates in a vacuum are attracted to each other due to quantum fluctuations in the vacuum energy. The threshold distance for this effect is the minimum distance between the plates where it can be observed and is determined by the size and shape of the plates and the vacuum energy density. The Casimir effect can be measured using a force sensor and has potential applications in nanotechnology and advanced technologies such as quantum computing. It is a proven phenomenon, supported by both experimental observations and theoretical calculations.
  • #1
nomadreid
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In the Casimir effect, there is a distance d between the plates where the effect is observable. Is this a threshold effect, so that for any non-zero distance [itex]\delta[/itex], the effect is not observable at d+[itex]\delta[/itex], or does this effect taper off? What does this depend on?
 
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  • #2
It is a strong function of distance: 1/r6 or 1/r8.
 
  • #3
Vanadium 50 said:
It is a strong function of distance: 1/r6 or 1/r8.

Interesting. Thank you. I should get more into the math involved.
 

1. What is the Casimir effect?

The Casimir effect is a physical phenomenon where two uncharged parallel plates in a vacuum are attracted to each other due to quantum fluctuations in the vacuum energy.

2. What is the threshold distance for the Casimir effect?

The threshold distance for the Casimir effect is the minimum distance between the two plates where the effect can be observed. This distance is determined by the size and shape of the plates, as well as the vacuum energy density.

3. How is the Casimir effect measured?

The Casimir effect can be measured by using a force sensor to detect the attractive force between the two plates. This force is extremely small, so sensitive equipment is needed to accurately measure it.

4. What are the practical applications of the Casimir effect?

The Casimir effect has potential applications in nanotechnology, as it can be used to manipulate and control the distance between two surfaces at the nanoscale. It may also have implications in the development of advanced technologies, such as quantum computing.

5. Is the Casimir effect a proven phenomenon?

Yes, the Casimir effect has been observed and measured in numerous experiments, providing strong evidence for its existence. It is also supported by theoretical calculations based on quantum mechanics.

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