Quantum physics and equivalence principle

[exponent137]

I read some articles, where equivalence principle is no more valid in quantum area. One example are neutrinos, changing colours (electron, muon, tauon neutrino). But formulae are not derived from fundaments, so I do not understand, where it is the catch.

I read also about COW experiment, this is experiment with neutrons in gravitational field. Phase difference at this experiment is dependent from neutron mass. But behavior in gravitational field should be independent from gravitational field. So, hot it is with this?

Are here any clear and simple suggestins, what should happens with equivalence principle in quantum area?

But I am aware that experiment which would violate equivalence principle because of quantum physics, will be revolutionary for quantum gravity. But now it does not exist idea, how to do some measurement in quantum gravity area.

Best regards

 

[exponent137]

I will try with one more specific question: In http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Equivalence_principle
it is written that
"The need to continue testing Einstein's theory of gravity may seem superfluous, as the theory is elegant and is compatible with almost all observations to date (except for instance the Pioneer anomaly). However, no quantum theory of gravity is known, and most suggestions violate one of the equivalence principles at some level. String theory, supergravity and even quintessence, for example, seem to violate the weak equivalence principle because they contain many light scalar fields with long Compton wavelengths. These fields should generate fifth forces and variation of the fundamental constants. There are a number of mechanisms that have been suggested by physicists to reduce these violations of the equivalence principle to below observable levels.
"
Can someone explain this or find links with explanations?

 

[Entropia]

,

I would like to address the topic of quantum physics and the equivalence principle. The equivalence principle, as stated by Albert Einstein, states that the effects of gravity are equivalent to the effects of acceleration. This principle has been a cornerstone of classical physics and has been successfully tested in a wide range of experiments. However, as you have mentioned, there have been some recent studies and experiments that suggest the equivalence principle may not hold true in the realm of quantum physics.

One example of this is the behavior of neutrinos, which have been observed to change colors as they travel through space. This phenomenon is known as neutrino oscillation and it is a clear violation of the equivalence principle. In addition, the COW experiment, which observed the phase difference of neutrons in a gravitational field, also challenges the principle as the mass of the neutron was found to affect the results.

So, why is this happening? It is important to note that the equivalence principle is a fundamental concept in classical physics but it may not hold true in the quantum realm. This is because quantum physics introduces new principles and laws that govern the behavior of particles at a subatomic level. The behavior of particles in a gravitational field may not follow the same rules as larger objects, and therefore the equivalence principle may not apply.

As you mentioned, the idea of quantum gravity is still a topic of ongoing research and there is currently no clear understanding of how to measure or test it. Any experiment that can successfully demonstrate a violation of the equivalence principle in the realm of quantum physics would be groundbreaking and could lead to a better understanding of quantum gravity.

In conclusion, while the equivalence principle has been a crucial concept in classical physics, it may not hold true in the realm of quantum physics. More research and experiments are needed to fully understand the implications of this and to develop a better understanding of quantum gravity.