Electron schwarzchild radius problem

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of the Schwarzschild radius as it applies to an electron, exploring the implications of calculating the volume of an electron at this radius. The scope includes theoretical considerations and mathematical reasoning.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant calculates the Schwarzschild radius of an electron to be 1.353*10^-57m and attempts to compute the volume of an electron at this radius, expressing confusion over the result being effectively zero.
  • Another participant suggests that the confusion arises from misunderstanding operator precedence in calculations, which could lead to an arithmetic underflow.
  • A third participant proposes that the volume being less than 10^-99 cubic meters could explain why calculators return a result of zero.
  • One participant questions the relevance of applying the Schwarzschild radius concept to an electron but later acknowledges that there are discussions on the topic, referencing an external link.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the significance of the Schwarzschild radius for an electron, with some questioning its relevance while others acknowledge its theoretical implications. There is no consensus on the usefulness of the concept in this context.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include potential misunderstandings of mathematical operations and the implications of extremely small values in physical calculations. The discussion does not resolve the theoretical relevance of the Schwarzschild radius for subatomic particles.

mrllama
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The schwarszchild radius of an electron=1.353*10^-57m, and to work out the volume of a particle assuming it is spherical is 4/3*pi*radius^3 so the volume of an electron at its schwarzchild radius is 4/3*pi*1.353*10^-57^3 = 0??! WHAT DOES THIS MEAN :S
 
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I'd say it means you need to learn about operator precedence so that you don't confuse (10^-57)^3 with 10^-57^3 = 10^-185193, causing an arithmetic underflow on your calculator.
 
May I suggest it's because the volume in cubic meters in less than 10^-99, hence your calculator figures this is as good as zero. Fair enough wouldn't you say!
 
Anyways, applying the concept of Schwarzschild radius to an electron seems pointless.

EDIT: It appears it's not entirely pointless. There's even http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_hole_electron"
 
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