- #1
sr6622
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what do most physicists today believe in?
Relativity vs. Quantum Theory: Which Reigns Supreme in Black Hole Physics?
- Thread starter sr6622
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In summary, most physicists today believe in both relativity and quantum theory. These theories are used to explain different situations, with relativity being applied to massive objects over large distances and quantum theory being used for small objects. While there may be some difficulties in fitting them together, both theories have been supported by experimental evidence. The challenge lies in finding a theory that can encompass both relativity and quantum theory as special cases.
- #2
quantumdude
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Is this really a homework question? 
Physicists accept both relativity and quantum theory.
Physicists accept both relativity and quantum theory.
- #3
sr6622
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Not really...i just sort of wanted to know since they contradict each other
- #4
Lyuokdea
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Physicists believe that when you look at massive objects over large distances, GR provides the right answer, while the QM is usually uncomputable.
Physicists believe that at small distances with small objects, QM gives the right answer while GR usually doesn't apply / gives nonsense.
They are both right, when you are looking at a specific circumstance, they only contradict when we are talking about Black Wholes and other objects that are small and massive or large (distance) with small (mass). Then physicists don't believe either because they both give nonsense.
~Lyuokdea
Physicists believe that at small distances with small objects, QM gives the right answer while GR usually doesn't apply / gives nonsense.
They are both right, when you are looking at a specific circumstance, they only contradict when we are talking about Black Wholes and other objects that are small and massive or large (distance) with small (mass). Then physicists don't believe either because they both give nonsense.
~Lyuokdea
- #5
HallsofIvy
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No, they do not "contradict each other". They apply to different situations and there is some difficulty when you try to fit them together. Both have given excellent experimental results (GPS requires relativity to give accurate results and transistors are based on quantum theory). Presumably some theory that includes both quantum theory and relativity as special cases will be found- that's pretty much the way science works.
- #6
PhysicsNoob88
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As others said they are used differently, Relativity is used when it comes to extremely massive objects such as stars. Quantum mechanics is used when describing small objects such as atoms and what happens within it. Now when you have to use both which is why there are some disagreements are which one to use when describing a Black hole.
1. What is the difference between Relativity and Quantum theory?
Relativity and Quantum theory are both major theories in physics, but they explain different aspects of the universe. Relativity explains the behavior of large objects, such as planets and galaxies, while Quantum theory explains the behavior of small particles, such as atoms and subatomic particles.
2. How does Relativity affect our daily lives?
Relativity has many practical applications in modern technology, such as GPS systems, which rely on precise time measurements based on the theory of relativity. It also helps us understand the behavior of light and gravity, and has led to advancements in fields such as astronomy and astrophysics.
3. What is the Uncertainty Principle in Quantum theory?
The Uncertainty Principle, also known as Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle, states that it is impossible to know both the position and momentum of a particle with absolute certainty. This means that the more precisely we know one of these properties, the less precisely we can know the other.
4. How does Quantum theory challenge our understanding of reality?
Quantum theory introduces concepts such as superposition and entanglement, which go against our classical understanding of how objects behave. It also suggests that particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously, and that the act of observation can affect the behavior of these particles. These ideas challenge our traditional understanding of reality and have sparked debates among scientists and philosophers.
5. Are Relativity and Quantum theory compatible?
Currently, Relativity and Quantum theory are not fully compatible with each other. Attempts have been made to combine the two theories into a single framework, such as String Theory, but a complete unification has not yet been achieved. However, both theories have been extensively tested and have been shown to accurately describe different aspects of the universe.
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