Planck size and Heisenberg and relativity

In summary, the Planck time, length, and mass are absolute and not affected by relativity or reference frames. However, the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle is dependent on the observer, as it describes the uncertainty of certain variables that can be measured differently. The use of Planck units as Natural Units is a curiosity and may not necessarily be accurate if any of the constants used in their definition are found to be variable. Heisenberg's uncertainty principle should not be affected by the observer, as it is a fundamental quantum property.
  • #1
heusdens
1,738
0
Is the Planck time/length/mass affected by relativity, or are they constant (independent of relative velocity and/or gravitation field)?

Same question for the Heisenberg Uncertainty Relation. Is it observer dependent?
 
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  • #2
The Planck units are absolute in their definition. They have nothing to do with observers or reference frames.

Heisenberg principle is implicitly in the frame of the observer.
 
  • #3
Planck units are constant, that's why the can be used as Natural Units. The Uncertainty Principle describes the uncertainty of certain variables. These variables are measured differently from different observers, so it is dependent.
 
  • #4
Planck units are a curosity - but they smack of cosmological numerology. Other thought to be constants such as the electron charge can be combined with G and c to lead to different magnitudes for the so called fundamental units. Moreover, if any of the constants picked for the game turn out to be long term variables, the whole notion is lost.
 
  • #5
Heisenberg's uncertainty in variables (position and momentum and energy and time) shouldn't depend on observer is just a Quantum property in the same sense that Planck Constant or Planck's lenght/time, if relativity predicts the cntrary it should be modified (at least to match quantum scales).
 

FAQ: Planck size and Heisenberg and relativity

What is Planck size and why is it important?

Planck size is the smallest possible unit of length, equal to 1.616 x 10^-35 meters. It is important because it represents the scale at which the effects of quantum mechanics and gravity become significant, and it is the scale at which the laws of physics as we know them may break down.

How does the Heisenberg uncertainty principle relate to Planck size?

The Heisenberg uncertainty principle states that it is impossible to simultaneously know the exact position and momentum of a particle. At the Planck scale, this uncertainty becomes significant and it is impossible to measure anything smaller than the Planck length with certainty.

How does relativity play a role in understanding Planck size?

Relativity, specifically the theory of general relativity, helps us understand the nature of spacetime and how it is affected by mass and energy. At the Planck scale, the effects of gravity become significant and relativity is necessary to understand the behavior of particles and spacetime.

Can we observe or measure anything at the Planck scale?

Currently, we do not have the technology or means to directly observe or measure anything at the Planck scale. However, some theories suggest that the effects of the Planck scale can be observed in phenomena such as black holes and the cosmic microwave background radiation.

How does the Planck size relate to the search for a theory of everything?

The search for a theory of everything, also known as a unified theory, is the quest to combine the principles of quantum mechanics and relativity into a single theory. The Planck scale is crucial in this search as it represents the scale at which these two theories must be reconciled in order to fully understand the fundamental laws of the universe.

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