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Abstract |
Understanding linearized aspects of gravity in the framework of quantum mechanics is one of
the great challenges in modern physics. Along this line, a prime question is to find whether the
linearized gravity is a quantum entity subject to the rules of quantum mechanics. Here, I will
introduce an idea for such a test based on the principle that two objects cannot be entangled
without a quantum mediator. We show that despite the weakness of gravity, the phase
evolution induced by the gravitational interaction of two micron size test masses in adjacent
matter-wave interferometers can detectably entangle them even when they are placed far
apart enough to keep Casimir-Polder forces at bay. I will discuss the prescription for
witnessing this entanglement, which certifies gravity as a quantum off-shell mediator, through
simple correlation measurements between two spins: one embedded in each test mass. I will
discuss how this experiment can place a potential constraint on the nature of gravity at short
distances as well. |
