Quantum Gravity in a Laboratory?

Experimental access to quantum gravity is difficult due to the Planck-energy scale, but low-energy experiments have been conducted. These experiments have not shown gravity in a coherent quantum superposition, unlike recent proposals. However, tabletop technology has advanced to the point where a feasible experiment may be possible in the near future. This Element discusses the proposal and its aims, highlighting the theory-laden nature of its interpretation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 31 July 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Quantum gravity's Planck-energy scale presents formidable obstacles to experimental exploration of its underlying physics. Nonetheless, low-energy experiments have been conducted to investigate the interplay between gravity and the quantum realm. Examples include the Page and Geilker quantum Cavendish experiment and the Colella-Overhauser-Werner neutron interferometry experiment. These experiments have not yielded states where gravity remains in a coherent quantum superposition, contrary to recent proposals.

In essence, if two initially unentangled subsystems interact solely through gravity and become entangled, quantum mechanics dictates that gravity cannot be considered a classical subsystem. Conducting such an experiment presents significant challenges, but remarkable advancements in tabletop technology have brought us to a point where it may become feasible in the near future. This Element provides an overview of the proposal, outlining its objectives and the key insights it seeks to demonstrate. It also highlights the theoretical implications inherent in its interpretation.

Weight: 164g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009327534