Quantum Gravity Explained: What It Is and Resources to Learn More

In summary, quantum gravity is the search for a theory that will combine general relativity and quantum mechanics to explain the behavior of both very large and very small objects. This is because both theories are unable to accurately describe conditions at the very early universe. Some potential candidates for this theory include loop quantum gravity, string theory, and M-theory. For more information, see the Wikipedia page on quantum gravity.
  • #1
sruthisupriya
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can anyone tell me what quantum gravity is, and if possible some links on it?
 
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  • #2
General relativity (related to gravity) is used for describing very massive / large objects. Quantum mechanics is used for describing very small objects. Both theories are extremely well tested, however when you try to apply them to say, very massive and very small objects (like conditions at the very early universe), they break down. When we say "quantum gravity" we are looking for a theory that will "unite" quantum mechanics and general relativity. There are several candidates including:
Loop quantum gravity http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loop_quantum_gravity
String theory http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/String_theory
M theory http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M-theory
See also:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quantum_gravity
 

1. What is quantum gravity?

Quantum gravity is a theoretical framework that seeks to unify the theories of general relativity (which explains the force of gravity at the large-scale level) and quantum mechanics (which explains the behavior of particles at the subatomic level). It proposes that at the smallest scales, the fabric of space-time is made up of discrete units called "quanta", which interact with each other to create the force of gravity.

2. Why is quantum gravity important?

Quantum gravity is important because it addresses one of the biggest unanswered questions in physics - how gravity behaves at the subatomic level. It also has implications for understanding the early universe and the nature of black holes. Additionally, a successful theory of quantum gravity could potentially lead to new technologies and advancements in fields such as quantum computing.

3. How is quantum gravity different from general relativity and quantum mechanics?

Quantum gravity combines elements of both general relativity and quantum mechanics, but it differs from these theories in several ways. General relativity describes gravity as the curvature of space-time, while quantum mechanics describes the behavior of particles at the subatomic level. Quantum gravity aims to unify these two theories by providing a framework for understanding how gravity works on a quantum level.

4. Are there any experimental results that support quantum gravity?

While there is currently no experimental evidence for quantum gravity, there have been several theoretical predictions that have been supported by experiments. For example, the existence of gravitational waves, which were predicted by Einstein's theory of general relativity, was confirmed by the LIGO experiment in 2015. Additionally, certain observations of black holes and the early universe align with predictions made by quantum gravity theories.

5. What are some resources to learn more about quantum gravity?

There are many resources available for learning more about quantum gravity, including books, online courses, and lectures. Some recommended resources include "The Elegant Universe" by Brian Greene, "Quantum Gravity" by Carlo Rovelli, and lectures from renowned physicists such as Leonard Susskind and Sean Carroll. Additionally, there are many online forums and discussion groups where individuals can ask questions and engage in discussions about quantum gravity.

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