Quantum Physics

Track 9: Quantum Gravity

The term "quantum gravity" refers to theories that try to unify gravity with other fundamental forces of physics (which are already unified together). It proposes a virtual particle called a graviton as a theoretical entity that mediates the gravitational pull.

Quantum gravity may be able to provide answers to some of the universe's most fundamental issues. Quantum effects, for example, play a role near black holes, which are so massive that even light emitted from within a specific radius, the black hole's event horizon, cannot escape their gravitational attraction.

Rather than a theory, the term "quantum gravity" refers to an issue. At various phases of development, several areas of research propose prospective solutions to the problem. These hypothetical quantum-gravity theories are viewed as either competing study directions or contributions to the common goal of finding the physically correct theory.