Graviton Spin: What is Moment of Inertia x Angular Frequency?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of spin in quantum mechanics, particularly in relation to particles such as the graviton. Participants explore the implications of defining spin in terms of moment of inertia and angular frequency, questioning the classical interpretation of these terms in the context of fundamental particles.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asserts that spin is defined as 'moment of inertia' (I) x 'angular frequency' (w) and questions the meaning of a particle having spin = 1 or spin = 2.
  • Another participant challenges the initial claim by asking for the source of the definition linking spin to moment of inertia and angular frequency.
  • A different participant argues that electrons and other fundamental particles cannot be visualized as spinning objects with moment of inertia or angular velocity, despite having intrinsic angular momentum.
  • It is noted that electron spins contribute to the total angular momentum of macroscopic objects, referencing the Einstein-de Haas effect as an example.
  • Another participant emphasizes that spin in quantum mechanics cannot be visualized in classical terms and should be regarded as an abstract mathematical property of particles.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the interpretation of spin, with some emphasizing its abstract nature in quantum mechanics while others attempt to relate it to classical concepts. There is no consensus on the initial definition of spin or its implications for particles like the graviton.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations in visualizing quantum spin using classical analogies, indicating a dependence on abstract mathematical frameworks without resolving the implications of these definitions.

Chaos' lil bro Order
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If Spin is 'moment of inertia' (I) x 'angular frequency' (w), what does it mean when we say a particle has spin = 1 or spin =2 like in the theoretical Graviton's case?
 
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Who claimed that "Spin is 'moment of inertia' (I) x 'angular frequency' (w)" ?

Daniel.
 
Chaos' lil bro Order said:
If Spin is 'moment of inertia' (I) x 'angular frequency' (w),

Electrons and other fundamental particles are not little tiny pellets that spin about their axes. As far as we know, they are pointlike and cannot be thought of as having a moment of inertia or an angular velocity. Nevertheless, they have intrinsic angular momentum, which cannot be "pictured" in any classical-like fashion as far as I know.

Electron "spins" do contribute to the total angular momentum of macroscopic objects. This is demonstraed by the Einstein-de Haas effect.
 
in short, spin in quantum mechanics cannot be visualized classically. Unfortunately, we have to take it as an abstract mathematical property of any particle, like charge, mass etc.
 

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