Equivalence principle and radiation by a uniformly accelerated charge

Citation
A. Shariati et M. Khorrami, Equivalence principle and radiation by a uniformly accelerated charge, FOUND PH L, 12(5), 1999, pp. 427-439
Citations number
21
Categorie Soggetti
Physics
Journal title
FOUNDATIONS OF PHYSICS LETTERS
ISSN journal
08949875 → ACNP
Volume
12
Issue
5
Year of publication
1999
Pages
427 - 439
Database
ISI
SICI code
0894-9875(199910)12:5<427:EPARBA>2.0.ZU;2-G
Abstract
We address the old question of whether or not a uniformly accelerated charg ed particle radiates, and consequently, if weak equivalence principle is vi olated by electrodynamics. We show that radiation has different meanings; s ome absolute, some relative. Detecting photons or electromagnetic waves is not absolute, it depends both on the electromagnetic field and on the state of motion of the antenna. An antenna used by a Rindler observer does not d etect any radiation from a uniformly accelerated co-moving charged particle . Therefore, a Rindler observer cannot decide whether or not he is in an ac celerated lab or in a gravitational field. We also discuss the general case .