Does light receive a spacetime curvature upon refraction?

In summary, the conversation discusses the mathematical description of a bend and whether it relates to spacetime curvature or the curvature of light's path. It is also mentioned that the quantum model of light is not necessary to explain refraction.
  • #1
Atlas3
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could the bend be described mathematically? Not the vector the curvature.
 
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  • #2
The bend in what? In the path of the light? That's not spacetime curvature; that's just curvature of the light's path. They're not the same thing.
 
  • #3
Is there quantum effects at intersection? Not necessarily gravity or time. On the photon.
 
  • #4
Atlas3 said:
Is there quantum effects at intersection? Not necessarily gravity or time. On the photon.

If you're talking about photons, you're talking about the quantum model of light. However, you don't need the quantum model of light to explain refraction; the classical model, of light as electromagnetic waves obeying Maxwell's Equations, explains refraction just fine.
 
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  • #5
Thank you
 

Related to Does light receive a spacetime curvature upon refraction?

1. What is spacetime curvature?

Spacetime curvature is the bending or warping of the fabric of space and time caused by the presence of massive objects. This is described by Einstein's theory of general relativity.

2. How does refraction affect light?

Refraction is the phenomenon of light changing direction and speed when passing through different mediums. This change in direction is caused by the difference in density between the two mediums and can result in a change in the angle of the light's path.

3. Does light experience spacetime curvature when passing through a medium?

Yes, light experiences a slight spacetime curvature when passing through a medium due to the change in speed and direction caused by refraction. However, this curvature is very small and not as significant as the curvature caused by massive objects.

4. How is the amount of spacetime curvature determined by refraction?

The amount of spacetime curvature caused by refraction is determined by the properties of the medium, such as its density and index of refraction, as well as the angle at which the light enters and exits the medium. This can be calculated using the laws of refraction and general relativity.

5. Can the spacetime curvature caused by refraction be observed?

The spacetime curvature caused by refraction is very small and not easily observable in everyday situations. However, it can be observed and measured in more extreme cases, such as in gravitational lensing or when light passes through very dense mediums like black holes.

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