Scientists at the University of Vienna have now measured the smallest known gravitational field. As revealed in nature, the researchers measured the gravitational pull two gold with a diameter of about 2 millimeters (0.079 inches) with a mass of about 90 millimeters (0.003 ounces). This remarkable work has opened a new window for humanity to understand gravity. Newton’s explanation of gravity is still valid in many places. Einstein’s work has taken the envelope even further, and it has proved to be accurate in explaining this force in extremely harsh environments, such as around a black hole or merging neutron stars.
What physicists have not yet been able to do is combine gravity with quantum mechanics. One possible answer is to study the gravity of very small things – but it is much easier to do. Previous experiments mostly focused on measuring gravitational interactions between large populations, such as the Earth and small populations. This is the first example of measuring the gravitational field between two objects with very small masses.
The researchers explained that where gravity behaves elsewhere is currently unknown, although some theoretical work suggests that values around the Planck mass (22 micrograms, or the mass of a fly egg) should show some deviation from the law of gravity. The work is not yet investigating such small populations, but researchers have lightly-sincerely noted, “You need to start somewhere.” This important milestone in the study of gravity would not have been possible without an incredible experimental setup. Gravity is very weak – we experience it as a strong force because the earth is bigger than we are. In absolute terms, however, it is one trillion times weaker than electromagnetic energy.
Therefore, to measure this tiny attraction in small things it is necessary to address many sources of experimental noise. These varied from electrostatic forces to seismic vibrations and even had the effect of standing very close to the test. The researchers added that the effects of the runners who took part in the Vienna Marathon were also tested. These challenges were difficult to overcome, but the team is already taking the newcomers board.
This will require a further understanding of how environmental effects affect the experimental setup so that the effects of gravity can be properly isolated.
