Can Gravitons Be Detected?

TL;DR

This paper investigates the theoretical possibility of detecting a single graviton, concluding that while idealized thought experiments suggest it might be possible, realistic physics makes detection practically impossible, supporting Dyson's skepticism.

Contribution

The paper provides a critical analysis of graviton detection, proposing an idealized thought experiment and highlighting errors in existing literature to clarify the feasibility of detection.

Findings

Idealized thought experiment suggests graviton detection is possible

Realistic physics constraints make detection practically impossible

Literature contains several mistakes regarding graviton detection and production

Abstract

Freeman Dyson has questioned whether any conceivable experiment in the real universe can detect a single graviton. If not, is it meaningful to talk about gravitons as physical entities? We attempt to answer Dyson's question and find it is possible concoct an idealized thought experiment capable of detecting one graviton; however, when anything remotely resembling realistic physics is taken into account, detection becomes impossible, indicating that Dyson's conjecture is very likely true. We also point out several mistakes in the literature dealing with graviton detection and production.