How Do Gravitons and Photons Compare in Quantum Theory?

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the comparison between gravitons and photons within quantum theory, referencing Leonard Susskind's insights from "The Black Hole War" (2008). It highlights that while electrically charged particles emit and absorb approximately 1019 photons per second, a single electron takes longer than the universe's age to emit a graviton. This disparity illustrates the fundamental differences in how gravity and electromagnetic forces operate at the quantum level. The conversation also touches on the relationship between mass, energy, and gravity, prompting inquiries into the mechanisms of gravitational effects in quantum theory.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum theory principles
  • Familiarity with the concepts of photons and gravitons
  • Knowledge of Richard Feynman's contributions to quantum physics
  • Basic grasp of the mass-energy equivalence principle
NEXT STEPS
  • Read chapter 13 of Steven Weinberg's "The Quantum Theory of Fields" for deeper insights into quantum gravity
  • Explore the implications of mass-energy equivalence in quantum mechanics
  • Investigate the role of virtual particles in gravitational interactions
  • Study the differences between electromagnetic and gravitational forces at the quantum level
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the fundamental forces of nature and their interactions at the quantum level.

Naty1
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Based on the following excerpt, I'd appreciate any general comments/observations and then follow with a specific question.

Leonard Susskind says in THE BLACK HOLE WAR, 2008, PG 347 :

Richard Feynman showed up with a quantum theory of forces...electrically charged particles can emit and absorb photons...every form of matter emits and absorbs gravitons...an electron emits and absorbs about 1019 photons every second (reflecting the electrical force charge#) and a single electron on average takes more time than the entire age of the universe to emit a single graviton (reflecting the force of gravity#).

#: my parenthetical comment

I knew physics was crazy, but that just seems "over the horizon" crazy!

Q: In laymans terms how does quantum theory reflect gravity effects from energy rather than mass? In other words, does it take into account the gravitational equivalency between mass and energy via gravitons... or is there another process?
 
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Hi Naty1,

if you have access to Weinberg's book, you may start the reading of chapter 13 in the first volume. He writes there much better than I could repeat. I may also attempt to present the lines of reasoning if you do not have access to it.
 

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