Moving charge in gravitational field.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around whether a charged particle radiates when it is in a gravitational field, particularly in the context of the principle of equivalence and the concept of proper acceleration. The scope includes theoretical considerations and conceptual clarifications regarding the behavior of charged particles in gravitational fields.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if a charged particle radiates in a gravitational field, referencing the principle of equivalence.
  • Another participant argues that a particle in free-fall, following a geodesic, does not radiate, as it experiences no proper acceleration.
  • Some participants mention previous discussions on the topic, suggesting that there are existing threads that explore similar questions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether a charged particle radiates in a gravitational field, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved with competing perspectives on the role of proper acceleration and geodesics.

Contextual Notes

The discussion may be limited by assumptions about the definitions of acceleration and the conditions under which radiation occurs. The reliance on previous threads suggests that there may be additional context or nuances not fully explored in this thread.

Sagar_C
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An accelerated charge particle radiates. So, in the light of principle of equivalence, does a charge particle also radiate when it is in a gravitational field? Sorry if the question doesn't make any sense.
 
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I would say no, because "acceleration" really means "proper acceleration". A box with a rocket on the bottom is the same as a box on the Earth because they both exhibit non-zero proper acceleration. If the box and the person inside are both being acted on by a graviational field and in free-fall, you can't tell that you're accelerating.

If the particle is following a geodesic, I don't believe it will radiate.
 
we've had some good long threads about this, search the archive here at PF to read through them.
 
jfy4 said:
we've had some good long threads about this, search the archive here at PF to read through them.

I thought so but somehow couldn't find. :(...Would you have some time to lead to those?

Edited to add: I found one: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=65767 . Any other would be appreciated.
 
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