Effect of high intensity electric and magnetic fields on gravity

In summary, the conversation discusses the effect of high intensity electric and magnetic fields on gravity. The Reissner-Nordstrom and Schwarzschild solutions to Einstein's gravitational field equations are mentioned, with a focus on the prediction that a strong electric field would increase or decrease gravity, or change the curvature of space. Quasars are suggested as a potential source for high intensity EM emissions, prompting the question of whether light bends differently around a quasar compared to a non-radiating object. The Einstein field equation for gravity, which includes contributions from EM fields, is also mentioned.
  • #1
bwana
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Please forgive me if I am posting in the wrong forum. Also the board limits the length of the title. I wanted to ask about Effect of high intensity electric and magnetic fields on gravity.

To begin, 15 years ago this was published:

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/do-electric-charges-and-m/

They refer to the "Reissner-Nordstrom" solution to Einstein's gravitational field equations. Basically what gravity would do near the surface of a very strong VanDe Graaf generator. They also mention the solution describing the special case in which the net electric charge is zero is the famous "Schwarzschild solution" to the gravitational field equations.

But I am more interested in what progress has been made in measuring the effect of a strong electric field. Is the prediction that it would increase gravity? or decrease it? or change the curvature of space so that gravity changes differently than the square of the radius between two masses?

Physical examples are not cited as they would be hard to find. But arent quasars a logical source of high intensity EM emissions? So the obvious question is:
Does light bend around a quasar differently than it bends around an equivalently massive but non radiating object?
 
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  • #2
For a start, the gravitational contribution from electric and magnetic fields are expressed in the Electromagnetic Stress-Energy tensor.

From this is derived the Einstein field equation for gravity, with contributions from EM fields appearing explicitly in the last terms on the right hand side.

f03ee6c20c6a00a5fb3e71e60e9fd6fe03f619aa.png


##F## is the Faraday tensor constisting of the electric and magnetic field strengths.
The equation is cut and paste, so the term containing ##\\rho## is from combining EM contributions with "dust" where ##rho## the density of the dust.
 
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FAQ: Effect of high intensity electric and magnetic fields on gravity

1. What is the effect of high intensity electric and magnetic fields on gravity?

The effect of high intensity electric and magnetic fields on gravity is known as the "gravitomagnetic effect" or "frame-dragging effect". This phenomenon occurs when a massive object rotates, creating a distortion in the surrounding space-time, affecting the path of nearby objects.

2. How strong are the electric and magnetic fields needed to affect gravity?

The strength of the electric and magnetic fields needed to affect gravity is still not fully understood. Some theories suggest that extremely strong fields, such as those found near black holes, could have a significant impact on gravity. However, these fields are currently impossible for us to create in a controlled environment.

3. Can high intensity electric and magnetic fields be used to manipulate gravity?

At this time, we do not have the technology to manipulate gravity using high intensity electric and magnetic fields. The effects of these fields on gravity are still being studied and understood, and it is not yet clear if they can be harnessed for practical applications.

4. Do high intensity electric and magnetic fields have any other effects on the surrounding environment?

High intensity electric and magnetic fields may have other effects on the surrounding environment, such as causing changes in the behavior of particles and radiation. These fields can also affect the motion of charged particles, which can have implications for certain technologies, such as particle accelerators.

5. How does the effect of high intensity electric and magnetic fields on gravity relate to Einstein's theory of general relativity?

Einstein's theory of general relativity predicts the existence of the gravitomagnetic effect, which is the basis for the idea that high intensity electric and magnetic fields can affect gravity. This theory has been confirmed through various experiments, such as the Gravity Probe B mission, which measured the frame-dragging effect caused by the Earth's rotation.

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