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Objects with embedded spins could test whether quantum measurement affects gravity
- Theoretical physicists from the UK, India, and the Netherlands have proposed a new experiment to determine whether gravity is affected by the act of measurement.
- The experiment, which could potentially be easier to perform, aims to reconcile Einstein’s theory of relativity with quantum theory.
- Multiple experimental groups around the world are testing whether gravitational fields can exist in non-classical states that contradict general relativity.
- The proposed experiment involves measuring the quantum state of a massive particle that is affected by the detection of its mass.
- A diamond crystal containing a single nitrogen vacancy centre would be used to hold the quantum spin at the beginning of the experiment.
- The crystal would be passed through a Stern-Gerlach interferometer and experience a magnetic field gradient, deflected by the gradient and recombine with itself.
- If a second interferometer placed close enough to detect the gravitational field produced by the first mass, it would collapse the superposition by providing “which path” information.
- The researchers are investigating potential ways to implement their proposal in practice, which will take at least 15 years.
- One of the researchers argues the proposal may take a small system and measure its gravitational field, but it does not actually avoid the problem.
- A paper describing the research has been accepted for publication in Physical Review Letters and is available on the arXiv pre-print server.
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