Andrei Lebed: Hydrogen Spectral Transitions Without Gravity

In summary, the UA article from 2013 discusses the work of professor Andrei Lebed on testing Einstein's theory of relativity in outer space. The article suggests that due to the absence of atomic absorption in flat spacetime, an electron can only jump to a higher energy level where space is curved. This idea is further supported by Lebed's calculations, which show that in flat space, the electron can only occupy the first level of the hydrogen atom. Moving the atom closer to Earth's gravitational field allows for the possibility of the electron jumping to a higher energy level due to the curvature of space. The writer finds this idea to be novel and asks for opinions on the topic. The conversation is then closed for moderation and a new thread
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greswd
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I came across this UA article from 2013, regarding their professor Andrei Lebed.
http://uanews.arizona.edu/story/testing-einstein-s-e-mc2-in-outer-space

The article is written for laymen, and I'm no expert myself, but it seems to suggest that there won't be any atomic absorption for hydrogen in flat spacetime, i.e. the microgravity of outer space.

Lebed's calculations indicate that the electron can jump to a higher energy level only where space is curved.

and
But what would happen if we moved that same atom away from Earth, where space is no longer curved, but flat?

You guessed it: The electron could not jump to higher energy levels because in flat space it would be confined to its primary energy level. There is no jumping around in flat space.

“In this case, the electron can occupy only the first level of the hydrogen atom,” Lebed explained. “It doesn't feel the curvature of gravitation.”

“Then we move it close to Earth’s gravitational field, and because of the curvature of space, there is a probability of that electron jumping from the first level to the second. And now the mass will be different.”
I agree with the writer's opinion, the idea does sound really novel.

What do you guys think of this?
 
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Related to Andrei Lebed: Hydrogen Spectral Transitions Without Gravity

1. What is the significance of Andrei Lebed's research on Hydrogen Spectral Transitions Without Gravity?

The significance of Andrei Lebed's research lies in its potential to challenge our current understanding of the behavior of atoms in the absence of gravity. It could also have implications for the development of new technologies, such as more accurate atomic clocks.

2. How did Andrei Lebed conduct his research on Hydrogen Spectral Transitions Without Gravity?

Andrei Lebed used a combination of theoretical calculations and computer simulations to study the behavior of hydrogen atoms under different conditions, including the absence of gravity. He also collaborated with other scientists who conducted experiments in microgravity environments to test his predictions.

3. What new insights were gained from Andrei Lebed's research on Hydrogen Spectral Transitions Without Gravity?

One of the main insights gained from Lebed's research is that the behavior of atoms in the absence of gravity may not follow the same rules as in normal gravity. This challenges our current understanding of atomic behavior and opens up new avenues for further research.

4. How could Andrei Lebed's research impact other fields of science?

Lebed's research could have implications for a wide range of fields, such as astrophysics, where understanding the behavior of atoms in space is crucial. It could also impact fields such as quantum mechanics and atomic physics, where precise measurements and calculations are needed.

5. What are the potential applications of Andrei Lebed's research on Hydrogen Spectral Transitions Without Gravity?

One potential application of Lebed's research is the development of more accurate atomic clocks, which could have important practical uses in fields such as navigation and communication. It could also lead to a better understanding of the behavior of atoms in extreme environments, such as in outer space or in the presence of strong gravitational fields.

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