Newton assumed mass of a light particle is approaching zero

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SUMMARY

Newton's particle theory posited that the mass of a light particle, or photon, approaches zero, effectively treating it as negligible. This assumption has been critiqued for potentially hindering advancements in particle physics due to a lack of precision in scientific inquiry. The discussion highlights the importance of accuracy in scientific measurements and questions whether dismissing small values can impede theoretical progress. The consensus suggests that the rest mass of photons is indeed zero, aligning with principles of special relativity, which state that the speed of light remains constant across reference frames.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newtonian physics and particle theory
  • Familiarity with the principles of special relativity
  • Basic knowledge of quantum mechanics
  • Concept of rest mass in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of zero rest mass in quantum field theory
  • Study the relationship between light speed and reference frames in special relativity
  • Explore the historical context of Newton's theories and their evolution
  • Investigate the role of precision in scientific measurements and its impact on theory development
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Physicists, students of physics, and anyone interested in the foundations of particle physics and the evolution of scientific theories.

BLUE_CHIP
Today, I was casually perusing the general physics forum when i came across this thread:Mass of Light? and Zlex posted

Newton assumed in his particle theory that the mass of a light particle is approaching zero, meaning that it is so close to zero it might as well be zero.

What I wish to discuss is whether it was truly good science to simply disregard the mass of light because it is so small.
Due to Newton's lack of knowledge in the area of quantum behavoir, surely disregarding such a value is criminal. For all he knew it could have had major connotations on the progression of particle physics over the next few decades.
What I am trying to say is:

Is there a sensible degree of accuracy at which to stop?

An could the lack of accuracy and the dismissal of values,
such as the mass of light, have set back the development of
new ideas in physics.


I'm not simply confining this to the example that I have given, but extend it to all branches of science.
 
Science news on Phys.org
There are good theoretical and experimental reasons for asserting that the rest mass of phtons is zero. The essential point is that the speed of light (in vacuum) is independent of reference frame. According to special relativity, this would not be so for anything with a positive rest mass.
 

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