Quantum fluctuations at different height.

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of quantum fluctuations and the Van der Waals force, which is one of the fundamental forces that hold atoms together. The question arises whether these forces and fluctuations change at different heights and if there would be any noticeable effects on substances. The idea of "Einstein's missing inch" is brought up, suggesting that there may be more space near gravitating bodies and therefore more quantum fluctuations. However, it is pointed out that we cannot detect any difference in space density due to our own existence within it. The conversation concludes by asking for a definition of quantum fluctuations.
  • #1
Edi
177
1
has quantum fluctuations and the Wand der walls force that they produce been measured at different heights? Are there any results? Would there/ should there, according to accepted theories, be any difference?
 
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  • #2
You mean gravity? No, the Van der Waals attraction is one of the fundamental forces that hold atoms together to form molecules. If it varied with height it would have a very noticeable effect on the properties of all substances.

For a pair of hydrogen atoms, for example, the Van der Waals potential can easily be calculated using time-independent second order perturbation theory as ce2a05/R6 where R is the distance between the pair of atoms, a0 is the Bohr radius, and c is a small numerical constant, about 6.5.
 
  • #3
Different heights/ different intensity gravitational fields, yes.
The idea for this question was like this: we know of Einsteins missing inch, the inch missing in Earths circumference due to stretching of space and so. This means that there is actually more space near a gravitating body than.. further away, in a weaker relative gravitational field. A very tiny bit, but still, it is. [ looking from a higher plain/ dimension, if you will]
If there is more space, then there should be relatively more quantum fluctuations, no?[looking from a higher plain]
ok, I saw my flaw in thought here - we cannot possibly detect any difference in space density, because we are a part of it and morf with it as it goes..
but still... so what are quantum fluctuations anyway?
 

FAQ: Quantum fluctuations at different height.

1. What are quantum fluctuations at different heights?

Quantum fluctuations at different heights refer to the spontaneous and temporary changes in energy levels of particles at a microscopic level. These fluctuations occur due to the inherent uncertainty in quantum mechanics, where particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously.

2. How do quantum fluctuations change at different heights?

The magnitude and frequency of quantum fluctuations can change at different heights due to the varying strength of gravitational fields. As the strength of gravity increases, particles experience a larger energy shift, resulting in larger fluctuations.

3. What is the significance of studying quantum fluctuations at different heights?

Studying quantum fluctuations at different heights can provide insights into the behavior of particles in extreme conditions, such as near black holes or in the early universe. It can also help us better understand the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics and how they interact with gravity.

4. Can quantum fluctuations at different heights be observed?

While we cannot directly observe quantum fluctuations, their effects can be observed and measured through various experiments and observations. These fluctuations play a crucial role in phenomena such as the Casimir effect, which has been observed in laboratory experiments.

5. How do quantum fluctuations at different heights relate to the uncertainty principle?

The uncertainty principle states that the position and momentum of a particle cannot be known simultaneously with certainty. Quantum fluctuations at different heights are a manifestation of this principle, as they represent the inherent uncertainty in the energy levels of particles and their fluctuation between different states.

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