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Scientific value of the quantum tests of equivalence principle in light of Hilbert’s sixth problem

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Abstract

In his sixth problem, Hilbert called for an axiomatic approach to theoretical physics with an aim to achieve precision and rigour in scientific reasoning, where logic and language (semantics) of physics play pivotal roles. It is from such a point of view, that we investigate the scientific value of the modern experiments to perform quantum tests of equivalence principle. Determination of Planck constant involves the use of acceleration due to gravity of the Earth (g) that results in the force on a test mass. The equivalence between the inertial mass and gravitational mass of a test object is assumed in the process of logically defining g from the relevant hypotheses of physics. Consequently, if Planck constant is used as input in any experiment (or in the associated theory that finds such an experiment) that is designed to test the equivalence between inertial and gravitational mass, then it is equivalent to establish a scientific truth by implicitly assuming it, i.e. a tautology. There are several notable examples which plague the frontiers of current scientific research which claim to make quantum test of equivalence principle. We question the scientific value of such experiments from Hilbert’s axiomatic point of view. This work adds to the recently reported semantic obstacle in any axiomatic attempt to put ‘quantum’ and ‘gravity’ together, albeit with an experimental tint.

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Acknowledgements

The authors thank R Radhakrishnan for pointing out ref. [31]. The work was accomplished while GS was visiting The Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata. AM is supported by the Department of Science and Technology of India through the INSPIRE Faculty Fellowship, Grant No. IFA18- PH208.

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  1. Indian Statistical Institute, Plot No. 203, Barrackpore, Trunk Road, Baranagar, Kolkata, 700 108, India

    Abhishek Majhi & Gopal Sardar

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Majhi, A., Sardar, G. Scientific value of the quantum tests of equivalence principle in light of Hilbert’s sixth problem. Pramana - J Phys 97, 26 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12043-022-02504-x

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