Could Unbihexium Unlock Mysteries of Quantum Gravity Measurement?

In summary, a Stanford researcher has used quantum mechanics to measure the effect of gravity. This discovery could potentially shed new light on various topics such as the gravitational constant, dark matter, the quantum vacuum, and even the universe. The researcher used lead as the weight for their experiment, possibly due to its mass and density. The potential discovery and manufacture of ultra-heavy elements like Unbihexium could also open up new possibilities for scientific investigation.
  • #1
sanman
745
24
A Stanford researcher has measured the effect of gravity using quantum mechanics:

http://www.newscientist.com/article.ns?id=dn10948&feedId=online-news_rss20

Can this shed new light on the gravitational constant, dark matter, the quantum vacuum, or even the universe?

Why did they have to use lead as the weight, anyway? Wouldn't any equivalent mass do?
 
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  • #2
sanman said:
A Stanford researcher has measured the effect of gravity using quantum mechanics:

http://www.newscientist.com/article.ns?id=dn10948&feedId=online-news_rss20

Can this shed new light on the gravitational constant, dark matter, the quantum vacuum, or even the universe?

Why did they have to use lead as the weight, anyway? Wouldn't any equivalent mass do?

Sounds interesting. Anyhow, to answer your questions we should read the Science, vol 315, p 74 article they are referring to. I will check it out when i am at work on monday.

marlon
 
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  • #3
I think they used the lead piece because of its mass and density.
 
  • #4
This is why I think the discovery and bulk manufacture of predicted stable ultra-heavy elements like Unbihexium (Atomic Number 126) could be achieved, then their unprecedented mass-densities could open new potential in scientific investigation.
 

1. What is quantum gravity?

Quantum gravity is a theoretical framework that aims to unify the theories of gravity, which describe the behavior of large-scale objects, and quantum mechanics, which explains the behavior of subatomic particles. It seeks to understand how gravity operates at the smallest scales, where quantum effects become significant.

2. How is quantum gravity different from classical gravity?

Classical gravity, as described by Newton's law of universal gravitation and Einstein's theory of general relativity, treats gravity as a force between massive objects. Quantum gravity, on the other hand, considers gravity as a fundamental force of nature, similar to the electromagnetic, strong, and weak forces. It also takes into account the strange behavior of matter at the smallest scales, where quantum effects dominate.

3. Why is it important to measure quantum gravity?

Measuring quantum gravity is crucial for understanding the fundamental workings of the universe. It can help us reconcile the discrepancies between general relativity and quantum mechanics and provide insights into the nature of space, time, and matter. It also has potential applications in technologies such as quantum computing and advanced materials.

4. What are some current methods for measuring quantum gravity?

Currently, there is no direct experimental evidence for quantum gravity, and scientists are still searching for ways to measure it. Some proposed methods include studying the behavior of matter under extreme conditions, such as in black holes or the early universe, and looking for signatures of quantum gravity in the cosmic microwave background radiation. Other approaches involve using high-energy particle accelerators or developing new theoretical models.

5. What are the challenges in measuring quantum gravity?

One of the main challenges in measuring quantum gravity is the extreme energy scales involved, which are much higher than what we can achieve with current technology. Another challenge is the lack of a complete and consistent theory of quantum gravity, making it difficult to design experiments that can test its predictions. Additionally, the effects of quantum gravity are expected to be very small, making them difficult to detect and measure accurately.

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