On low energy quantum gravity induced effects on the propagation of light

TL;DR

This paper proposes a Lorentz-invariant semiclassical model for light propagation influenced by quantum gravity, contrasting with previous models that predicted Lorentz invariance breakdown, and explores potential energy-dependent effects in cosmology.

Contribution

It introduces a new set of assumptions ensuring Lorentz invariance in semiclassical quantum gravity models of light propagation.

Findings

Lorentz invariance is maintained in the proposed model.

The model allows for energy-dependent effects on light propagation.

Potential cosmological implications of quantum gravity effects are discussed.

Abstract

Present models describing the interaction of quantum Maxwell and gravitational fields predict a breakdown of Lorentz invariance and a non standard dispersion relation in the semiclassical approximation. Comparison with observational data however, does not support their predictions. In this work we introduce a different set of ab initio assumptions in the canonical approach, namely that the homogeneous Maxwell equations are valid in the semiclassical approximation, and find that the resulting field equations are Lorentz invariant in the semiclassical limit. We also include a phenomenological analysis of possible effects on the propagation of light, and their dependence on energy, in a cosmological context.