Spatial and temporal variation of alpha?

[asimov42]

Hi folks,

In a followup to another thread about the recent controversial results by Webb et al. suggesting that the fine structure constant (alpha) varies across the visible universe, I was wondering:

Assuming the Webb et al. results are correct (a big assumption), would we be able to say anything about how alpha might be varying locally (at our local position in spacetime)? Do existing models which allow for a varying alpha place restrictions on how it may vary? Or would the only way to determine local spatial and temporal variations be by experiment? (Of course, any variation would have to be very small, given the bounds already established by experiments to date.)

Thanks.

J.

 

[Almsco]

Hi J,

That's an interesting question. I think it's worth pointing out that the Webb et al. results are still extremely controversial, so even if they turn out to be correct, we still won't have a full understanding of how alpha might be varying locally. However, if their results are correct, then it may be possible to say something about local variations of alpha based on existing models that allow for a varying alpha. It would also be interesting to see if there are any experiments that could be done to detect any local variations.

Cheers!