Uncertain Gravity: How Can We Explore It?

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The discussion centers on the relationship between quantum mechanics (QM) and general relativity (GR), highlighting that while the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle (HUP) applies within QM, gravity is not incorporated into QM. The potential for gravity to influence the HUP is questioned, particularly in the context of experiments like the double slit experiment with gravitational wave detectors. Current technology may not allow for practical experimentation, but the implications of such experiments could either support the validity of both theories or indicate flaws in GR. The conversation also references string theory and loop quantum gravity as ongoing attempts to reconcile these fundamental theories. Overall, the exploration of gravity's role in quantum phenomena remains a significant and unresolved issue in theoretical physics.
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Greetings !

The HUP applies within QM. But, the HUP is not part of GR.
Gravity is not part of QM on the other hand. In QM the only
method of interaction we deal with is the electromagnetic
and extended theories deal with the nuclear forces.

But, what about using Gravity to "violate" the HUP ?
I know the necessary microscopic scales and the weaknesss
of Gravity as a force probably prevent us from making any
relevant experiments, for now. But, how has this specific
issue been adressed so far ? And what potential experimantal
ideas exist ?

Live long and prosper.
 
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The basic problem is GR is a "classical" (as opposed to quantum) theory. When they are both important (e.g. black holes), the theory just breaks down. String theory and loop quantum gravity are examples of proposals to resolve this issue. Neither has reached the point that the issue is close to being resolved.
 
Greetings !

mathman, I am in general aware of the problems and the
attempts to solve them. That was not exactly what I meant
to ask.

What I am talking about is, for example (and I know it's
probably practicly impossible with today's technology,
but I do at least want to know what the predicted results are,
if any), the double slit experiment where a detector is placed
near at least one of the slits that uses space-time
oscillations - gravity waves. Will there be WF collapse for
an otherwise neutral particle ?

If the answer is yes then clearly either both theories remain
correct or GR is partialy flawed and the efforts to unite them
will be more productive through such experiments (if we could actually conduct them). If the answer is no then clearly both theories are partially incorrect or purhaps just QM and the efforts to change them into a single more succesfull theory will, again, be more productive through such experiments.

Makes any sense ?

Live long and prosper.
 
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