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Physicists may have found a surprising new link between the universe’s biggest and smallest mysteries—hidden in the twist of light.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers discovered that when photons journey through the warped fabric of spacetime, their polarization—the direction in which they vibrate—can behave in a way that defies classical expectations. Instead of returning to its original state, the polarization can shift in a phenomenon known as non-reciprocity. This subtle effect suggests that light, in the presence of gravity, may not be as predictable as once thought.
At the heart of this discovery is a shift in perspective—literally. By carefully adjusting the quantization axis, or the angle at which polarization is observed, scientists detected amplified changes in the photon’s orientation, known as Wigner Rotation Angles (WRAs). Remarkably, near massive objects like black holes, these shifts could be ten times greater than previously anticipated.
To test this theory, researchers propose using advanced space-based interferometers and quantum optical systems. If confirmed, this non-reciprocal twist could offer a new way to explore how quantum mechanics and general relativity interact—and may even challenge Einstein’s cherished Equivalence Principle.
“This opens up a new experimental window into some of physics’ biggest mysteries,” said Dr. Warner Miller, co-author of the study.
Published in Scientific Reports, the findings could reshape how we probe the cosmos—from the vast gravitational wells of black holes to the subatomic quirks of quantum particles.Physicists may have found a surprising new link between the universe’s biggest and smallest mysteries—hidden in the twist of light. In a groundbreaking study, researchers discovered that when photons journey through the warped fabric of spacetime, their polarization—the direction in which they vibrate—can behave in a way that defies classical expectations. Instead of returning to its original state, the polarization can shift in a phenomenon known as non-reciprocity. This subtle effect suggests that light, in the presence of gravity, may not be as predictable as once thought. At the heart of this discovery is a shift in perspective—literally. By carefully adjusting the quantization axis, or the angle at which polarization is observed, scientists detected amplified changes in the photon’s orientation, known as Wigner Rotation Angles (WRAs). Remarkably, near massive objects like black holes, these shifts could be ten times greater than previously anticipated. To test this theory, researchers propose using advanced space-based interferometers and quantum optical systems. If confirmed, this non-reciprocal twist could offer a new way to explore how quantum mechanics and general relativity interact—and may even challenge Einstein’s cherished Equivalence Principle. “This opens up a new experimental window into some of physics’ biggest mysteries,” said Dr. Warner Miller, co-author of the study. Published in Scientific Reports, the findings could reshape how we probe the cosmos—from the vast gravitational wells of black holes to the subatomic quirks of quantum particles.
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