Abstract
Quantum or torsion gravity models predict unusual properties of space-time at very short distances. In particular, near the Planck length, around , empty space may behave as a crystal, singly or doubly refractive. However, this hypothesis remains uncheckable for any direct measurement, since the smallest distance accessible in experiment is about at the LHC. Here I propose a laboratory test to measure the space refractivity and birefringence induced by gravity. A sensitivity from down to the Planck length could be reached at existent GeV and future TeV energy lepton accelerators using laser Compton scattering. There are already experimental hints for gravity signature at distances approaching the Planck length by 5–7 orders of magnitude, derived from SLC and HERA data.
- Received 1 August 2012
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.109.141103
© 2012 American Physical Society
Synopsis
Testing Quantum Gravity with Accelerators
Published 5 October 2012
Existing or planned electron accelerators may be able to see the breakdown of general relativity.
See more in Physics