Quantum physics theory of relativity
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Quantum Physics and the Theory of Relativity: A Synthesis
Introduction to Quantum Mechanics and Relativity Theory
Quantum mechanics and the theory of relativity are two pillars of modern physics. Quantum mechanics deals with the behavior of particles at the smallest scales, while relativity theory, formulated by Einstein, addresses the nature of space, time, and gravity. Despite their individual successes, integrating these two theories has been a significant challenge for physicists.
Quantum Principle of Relativity
The concept of the "Quantum Principle of Relativity" (QPR) suggests that the statistical nature of quantum mechanics, including its inherent randomness, can be reconciled with the principles of relativity. This principle posits that the Lorentz transformation, which is fundamental to special relativity, inherently supports non-deterministic dynamics, complex probability amplitudes, and multiple trajectories1. However, some argue that QPR is incomplete because it does not provide a coherent formalism that connects superluminal and subluminal branches of observers2.
Quantum Information and Relativity
Quantum information theory, which deals with the acquisition and manipulation of information from quantum systems, faces significant constraints imposed by relativity. Special relativity restricts the transfer of information between distant systems, and quantum entropy is not Lorentz covariant. Additionally, the transformation of reduced density matrices for entangled systems may not always be completely positive maps, indicating a fundamental trade-off between detector reliability and localizability3.
Relativistic Quantum Theory
Efforts to reconcile quantum mechanics with relativity have led to the development of relativistic quantum theory. This approach uses an operator-algebraic framework to describe space-time structures and highlights the importance of massless modes, such as photons and gravitons, in describing events and measurements4. This framework suggests that quantum mechanics and relativity are deeply interconnected and rely on each other for a complete description of physical phenomena.
Quantum Theory and General Relativity
The development of quantum theory and general relativity in the early 20th century marked the end of classical physics. Key contributions from scientists like Max Planck, Albert Einstein, and Niels Bohr laid the groundwork for these theories. Lorentz's acceptance of Einstein's general relativity was a significant milestone in this development5.
Quantizing General Relativity
Quantizing general relativity involves reformulating quantum mechanics to apply to the fundamental structure of space-time. This new formulation aims to provide a more general and complete framework from which the conventional interpretation of quantum theory can be deduced6. The union of general relativity and quantum theory, often referred to as "quantum geometrodynamics," provides new insights into the foundations of physics and the origins of the universe7.
Canonical Quantum General Relativity
Canonical quantum general relativity, also known as loop quantum gravity, is an attempt to define a mathematically rigorous, non-perturbative, background-independent theory of quantum gravity. This approach emphasizes the fundamental discreteness of space-time and aims to combine the principles of general relativity with quantum mechanics8 9. Loop quantum gravity uses connections and holonomies as central variables, contrasting with older geometrodynamical approaches that focus on the metric of three-dimensional space.
Framework for Probabilistic Theories with Non-Fixed Causal Structure
A novel framework for probabilistic theories with non-fixed causal structure combines elements of general relativity and quantum theory. This approach uses physical compression to relate quantities and calculate probabilistic correlations without imposing a fixed causal structure. This framework provides a new formulation of quantum theory and offers a potential pathway for integrating general relativity into a unified theory of quantum gravity10.
Conclusion
The integration of quantum mechanics and the theory of relativity remains one of the most profound challenges in theoretical physics. Various approaches, including the Quantum Principle of Relativity, relativistic quantum theory, and loop quantum gravity, offer promising pathways toward a unified framework. Continued research in these areas is essential for advancing our understanding of the fundamental nature of the universe.
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Quantum principle of relativity
The special theory of relativity can account for the random behavior in quantum mechanics, indicating deeper connections between the two seemingly different theories than previously thought.
Comment on ‘Quantum principle of relativity’
The quantum principle of relativity (QPR) is incomplete, as both superluminal and subluminal branches are separable and there is no mathematical coherent formalism connecting them.
Quantum Information and Relativity Theory
Quantum information theory and relativity theory are fundamental to theoretical physics, but special relativity and general relativity may require reassessment of current concepts.
Highly CitedRelativistic Quantum Theory
Relativistic quantum theory reconciles quantum theory with relativity theory, highlighting the importance of massless modes, photons, gravitons, and Huygens' Principle for describing events and measurements.
Highly Cited"Relative State" Formulation of Quantum Mechanics
This paper presents a new, more general and complete formulation of quantum mechanics suitable for application to general relativity, without contradicting the conventional interpretation.
Highly CitedQuantum theories of gravity
Quantum geometrodynamics suggests a fundamental role for the quantized gravitational field in the universe, offering new perspectives on the foundations of physics and the origins of the universe.
Introduction to Modern Canonical Quantum General Relativity
Modern canonical quantum general relativity offers a mathematically rigorous, non-perturbative, background-independent theory of Lorentzian quantum gravity, revealing new mathematical structures and predictions.
Highly CitedModern Canonical Quantum General Relativity
Loop quantum gravity aims to construct a mathematically rigorous, background-independent, non-perturbative quantum field theory of Lorentzian general relativity and all known matter in four spacetime dimensions.
Highly CitedTowards quantum gravity: a framework for probabilistic theories with non-fixed causal structure
This paper presents a framework for probabilistic theories with non-fixed causal structure, combining general relativity and quantum theory, and suggests how it could be used to construct a theory of quantum gravity.
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