Moving charge in gravitational field.

In summary, the conversation discusses whether a charge particle also radiates when it is in a gravitational field, in light of the principle of equivalence. The expert summarizer concludes that, unlike an accelerated charge particle, a charge particle in a gravitational field does not radiate because it is following a geodesic. The expert also provides links to past discussions on this topic for further reading.
  • #1
Sagar_C
30
1
An accelerated charge particle radiates. So, in the light of principle of equivalence, does a charge particle also radiate when it is in a gravitational field? Sorry if the question doesn't make any sense.
 
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  • #2
I would say no, because "acceleration" really means "proper acceleration". A box with a rocket on the bottom is the same as a box on the Earth because they both exhibit non-zero proper acceleration. If the box and the person inside are both being acted on by a graviational field and in free-fall, you can't tell that you're accelerating.

If the particle is following a geodesic, I don't believe it will radiate.
 
  • #3
we've had some good long threads about this, search the archive here at PF to read through them.
 
  • #4
jfy4 said:
we've had some good long threads about this, search the archive here at PF to read through them.

I thought so but somehow couldn't find. :(...Would you have some time to lead to those?

Edited to add: I found one: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=65767 . Any other would be appreciated.
 
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FAQ: Moving charge in gravitational field.

How does a moving charge behave in a gravitational field?

When a charge moves through a gravitational field, it experiences a force due to the gravitational interaction between the charge and the mass that is creating the field. This force can either accelerate or decelerate the charge depending on the direction of its motion relative to the gravitational field.

What is the relationship between the electric force and the gravitational force on a moving charge?

The electric force and gravitational force on a moving charge are independent of each other. The electric force depends on the charge and its position relative to other charges, while the gravitational force depends on the mass and the distance between objects. Both forces can act simultaneously on a moving charge, causing it to follow a curved path.

How does the strength of the gravitational field affect the motion of a moving charge?

The stronger the gravitational field, the greater the force on the moving charge, which can lead to a more significant change in its motion. In a stronger gravitational field, the charge will accelerate or decelerate more quickly, causing it to move at a faster or slower speed, respectively.

Can a moving charge escape from a gravitational field?

Yes, a moving charge can escape from a gravitational field if its speed is greater than the escape velocity, which is dependent on the mass and shape of the gravitational field. If the charge's speed is less than the escape velocity, it will be pulled back towards the source of the field.

How does the motion of a moving charge in a gravitational field differ from its motion in a uniform electric field?

In a gravitational field, the force on a moving charge will always be directed towards the source of the field, while in a uniform electric field, the force on a moving charge will always be parallel to the electric field lines. Additionally, in a gravitational field, the force on the charge is dependent on its mass, while in an electric field, it is dependent on its charge.

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