What Happens to a Photon Near the Sun in Quantum Gravity?

In summary, in classical general relativity, the angle of deflection of light is proportional to the inverse of the radius from the center of the sun. At large radii, this angle is very small, but what happens when quantum gravity is taken into account? There are various approaches to incorporating quantum gravity, but it is an unfinished theory. If there is a smallest length, it is likely that there is also a smallest angle of deflection for light. This is because a photon with small momentum will have a blurred location, and its own momentum also contributes to this blurring.
  • #1
exponent137
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In classical general relativity it is known that angle of deflection is proportional to radius-1 from the center of the sun. If radius is large, this angle is very small, what happens already at the radius of the sun.
But what happens to this photon, when we include quantum gravity (QG)? I know that quantum gravity is unfinished theory. But what are the main the most simple QG approaches to the above example and where the problems arise?
regards
 
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  • #2
I suspect, if if the smallest length exists, also the smallest angle of deflection of light exists.
If a photon gives small momentum, its location is additionaly blurred.
Because of its own momentum, its locations is primary blurred.
 

Related to What Happens to a Photon Near the Sun in Quantum Gravity?

1. What is a photon?

A photon is a fundamental particle of electromagnetic radiation, which includes visible light, radio waves, and x-rays. It is the basic unit of light and carries energy and momentum.

2. How close can a photon get to the sun?

A photon can get extremely close to the sun, as it travels at the speed of light. However, as it approaches the sun, it will be affected by its strong gravitational pull and may be bent or scattered.

3. Can a photon survive close proximity to the sun?

Yes, a photon can survive close proximity to the sun. Since it has no mass, it cannot be destroyed or burnt by the sun's intense heat. However, it may be absorbed or scattered by the sun's atmosphere or surface.

4. What happens to a photon when it gets close to the sun?

As a photon gets close to the sun, it will be affected by the sun's strong gravitational pull. This can cause its path to be bent or it may be scattered by particles in the sun's atmosphere. It may also be absorbed by atoms in the sun's surface, causing it to lose energy.

5. Why is it important to study photons close to the sun?

Studying photons close to the sun can provide valuable information about the sun's structure, composition, and behavior. It can also help us understand how light and other forms of electromagnetic radiation behave in extreme conditions. This knowledge can have applications in various fields, such as space exploration and solar energy technology.

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