Deflection of light passing close to the sun

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the deflection of light as it passes close to the sun, specifically considering the influences of the sun's magnetic field and the density of space around the sun's corona. Participants explore the theoretical implications and effects of gravity and magnetic fields on light, as well as the nature of space in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the premise that magnetic fields can deflect light and whether space has a measurable density.
  • Others assert that while the magnetic field may not affect light, gravity would have a significant impact on its path, referencing a specific deflection measurement of 1.75 arc seconds predicted by relativity.
  • One participant notes that the solar wind contributes to a non-vacuum state, suggesting that the increased density of protons and electrons near the sun's corona might influence light, though they express uncertainty about its effect.
  • Another participant argues that even at the sun's surface, the matter density is too low to measurably divert the path of photons.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the influence of the sun's magnetic field on light deflection, with some asserting it has no effect while others focus on gravitational effects. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the impact of increased particle density on light passage.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the assumptions made about the effects of magnetic fields and the density of space, as well as the lack of consensus on the measurable impact of solar wind on light deflection.

Lesnick
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I would like to know how much light passing close to the sun will be deflected by the suns magnetic field and the increase in density of space around the suns corona.
 
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Lesnick said:
I would like to know how much light passing close to the sun will be deflected by the suns magnetic field and the increase in density of space around the suns corona.
What makes you think that
a] magnetic fields deflect light, and
b] space has a density?
 
I don't believe the magnetic field would affect the light. However the gravity would definitely. Not sure how much though.
 
Drakkith said:
I don't believe the magnetic field would affect the light. However the gravity would definitely. Not sure how much though.

1.75 arc seconds is relativity's prediction, and what Eddington measured in 1919.
 
Space is not a true vacum, The solar wind is measured by its proton and electron flux, the closer you get to the suns corona the density of the protons and electrons will be much greater compared to the surounding space. I am not sure if this is dense enough to affect the passage of light.
 
Even near the surface of the sun matter density is too low to measurable divert the path of photons.
 

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