08 February 2024

Unveilling Quantum: From Historical Origins to Modern Physics

The words, 'Quantum' entered the realm of physics in the 1870s, initially used in the now outdated context of referring to the 'quantity of electric fluid present in an electrically neutral body.' The concept of 'quantum theory' emerged in the early 20th century, thanks to the contributions of both Max Planck and Albert Einstein.

The contemporary understanding and usage of 'quantum' in physics began to take shape with Max Planck's work in 1901. Planck sought to explain black-body radiation and the phenomenon of objects changing colour when heated. Instead of assuming a continuous wave of energy emission, he proposed that energy was emitted in discrete packets or bundles.

Niels Bohr later applied quantum theory to elucidate the structure of atoms, proposing the quantization of energy levels for electrons within atoms.

This research ultimately led to the identification of the minimum amount of energy that an atom can emit or absorb, referred to as a 'quantum,' with the plural form being 'quanta,' denoting 'how much' energy. A photon of light carries such a quantum of energy.

As a result of their pioneering work on quanta, both Niels Bohr and Max Planck were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics. Albert Einstein is also considered a key figure in the development of quantum theory, particularly for his explanation of light as quanta in his theory of the photoelectric effect, for which he received the Nobel Prize in 1921.

In physics, quantum mechanics is the branch of mechanics concerned with the mathematical description of the motion and interactions of subatomic particles, encompassing concepts such as energy quantization, wave-particle duality, the uncertainty principle, and the correspondence principle.

Unravelling Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation: A Tribute to Sir Isaac Newton, the Father of Modern Physics

By Soumendra Nath Thakur

By the time of Max Planck's work in 1899, Newton's law of universal gravitation was considered accurate, not merely a convenient approximation for small velocities and masses. Its approximate nature was revealed with the emergence of general relativity in 1915, underscoring the significance of the universal law of gravitation and its foundation by Sir Isaac Newton, the father of modern physics. Indeed, Newton's groundbreaking work laid the foundation for our understanding of gravity and its effects on small velocities and masses. The advent of general relativity in 1915 brought about a transformative change in our understanding of gravity, exposing the limitations of Newton's laws in certain contexts. It is important to acknowledge Newton's contributions and the accuracy of his laws within their applicable domains, as well as the advances heralded by later theories such as general relativity. By respecting the historical context and honouring Newton's contributions, we can appreciate the evolution of scientific knowledge without bias or undue emphasis on others.

Before the Universe's Formation - My Interpretation

12th May 2021 (about 3 years 9 months ago)

Today 08-0202024

A Summary:

The relationship between frequency and energy (E) is defined by Planck's equation E=hν, while Einstein's theory of special relativity relates mass to energy (E) through E=mc². Thus, combining these equations, we find that mass (m) is linked to frequency. Since f = c/λ or c = λf, where (c) is a universal constant, this relation holds true where light exists; however, in its absence, the universal constant (c) becomes irrelevant. This raises the question: what happens to energy (E), frequency, and wavelength (λ) in such a scenario?

Through established physics equations, such as Einstein's theory of special relativity (E=mc²) and Planck's equation (E=hν), we see that mass (m) and energy (E) are intricately related to frequency. Yet, without light, the role of the universal constant (c) diminishes. λ = v/f, with velocity (v) at the speed of light (c), and f= c/λ. When v = 3 x 10^10 cm/s, and considering the maximum frequency of visible light (f) = 7.5*10^14 Hz, with its corresponding wavelength (λ) = 400 nm, and velocity v = c = 3 x 10^10 cm/s. Similarly, for Gamma-rays with the maximum frequency (f) = 10^24 Hz, and its wavelength (λ) = <10^-12 m (i.e., <0.01 nanometres), also with velocity (v) = 3 x 10^10 cm/s.

Einstein's theory of special relativity dictates the absolute speed limit for wave travel, equivalent to the speed of light (c), which is 3 x 10^10 cm/s. However, when the frequency (f) of any wave reaches infinity (∞), its wavelength must be zero, i.e., λ = 0. A singularity, where gravity approaches infinity, results in the cessation of space and time, rendering the current laws of physics inapplicable. Such a singularity is considered a point form with no dimensions. This raises questions about how a no-dimensional singularity interacts within three-dimensional space (e.g., black hole).

Moreover, in the absence of events, time, and light, a simple mathematical representation of energy (E) becomes challenging, as energy likely transforms into another form, behaving like vibration, as suggested by Planck's equation where energy (E) is related to frequency.

Time (t), an abstract concept representing the ongoing progression of existence and events, is increasingly being understood in terms of space. Thus, for time to exist, both existence and events are essential, as without events, there would be no real meaning to time. In the absence of time, equations like Planck's equation and Einstein's theory of special relativity cease to apply.

Space, too, would cease to exist without events, time, and light. The abstract nature of mathematics suggests that energy (E), as per Planck's equation E=hν, might persist as a very high vibration frequency, even without events, time, space, and light. In such a singularity, where gravity approaches infinity and space-time ceases, known physics laws no longer hold, yet we can conceptualize this through mathematical abstraction.

#AbsoluteTime #AbstractMathematics #AbstractScience #EnergyFrequency #EnergyFrequencyInteraction #EnergyGravityInteraction #EnergyMass #Frequency #FrequencyGravityInteraction #GeneralRelativity #GravitationalRedShift #Gravity #Mass #MassGravityInteraction #MechanicalStress #OriginPoint #PlankEquation #PlanksEquation #Reality #Redshift #RelativeTime #Space #SpecialRelativity #Time #TimeDilation #Wavelength #WavelengthDilation

Gravity and gravitational wave:

Dear Mr. Hollings The term 'travel' typically implies movement from one place to another. In the context of gravitational fields, the source refers to the massive body generating the field, which can be considered as the 'traveling' entity. However, it's important to note that the volume of the gravitational field remains constant relative to the source. From this perspective, the gravitational field itself is not traveling; rather, it's the source that may move along with its gravitational field. This is because the volume of the gravitational field surrounding a massive body remains consistent, indicating that the gravitational field doesn't undergo travel in this sense.

Regarding your query about the last sentence in 5b, it's important to distinguish between 'Gravity' and 'gravitational wave' as they represent distinct phenomena. The gravitational field associated with gravity does not travel in the same manner as gravitational waves. The gravitational field originates from a fixed massive body and remains stationary relative to it. On the other hand, gravitational waves are generated by the acceleration or distortion of massive bodies. These waves propagate through space at the speed of light, carrying energy away from the source of disturbance."
Gravity and Gravitational Field: Gravity refers to the force of attraction between objects with mass. The gravitational field is the region of space surrounding a massive object where the force of gravity is exerted. This field is generated by the presence of mass and extends indefinitely, becoming weaker with distance from the source.
Gravitational Wave and Sources: Gravitational waves are ripples in spacetime caused by the acceleration or distortion of massive objects, such as black holes or neutron stars. These waves propagate outward from their source at the speed of light, carrying energy away from the system. Sources of gravitational waves include events such as the merger of binary black holes, the collapse of massive stars, or asymmetrical supernova explosions.