On the redshift problem
Abstract
The note examines whether the universality of gravitational redshift is realized in a most general nonmetric theory of gravity involving flat space with a Minkowski metric tensor and a gravitational potential expressed by a symmetric tensor of rank 2. The appropriate parameters of this theory are given, and the universality of gravitational redshift is tested using ground-level, fine-structure, and hyperfine-structure transitions in the hydrogen atom as examples of atomic clocks. The results show that the relative shift of energy levels does not depend on the nature of the levels, but is determined only by the gravitational field at the point in space where the clock is located. (i.e., the universality of gravitational redshift is realized).
- Publication:
-
Fizika
- Pub Date:
- 1977
- Bibcode:
- 1977Fiz....20..139K
- Keywords:
-
- Atomic Clocks;
- Gravitational Effects;
- Minkowski Space;
- Red Shift;
- Relativity;
- Atomic Energy Levels;
- Gravitational Fields;
- Hamiltonian Functions;
- Hydrogen Atoms;
- Hyperfine Structure;
- Astrophysics