The Equivalence Principle as a Probe for Higher Dimensions

TL;DR

This paper explores how higher-dimensional theories can modify general relativity and suggests that violations of the Equivalence Principle in five dimensions could be detectable through new space-based experiments.

Contribution

It introduces the idea that the Weak Equivalence Principle can be broken in five-dimensional theories, providing a potential experimental test for higher-dimensional models.

Findings

Weak Equivalence Principle may be violated in 5D theories

Higher-dimensional vacuum differs from 4D general relativity

Potential for space-based experiments to detect deviations

Abstract

Higher-dimensional theories of the kind which may unify gravitation with particle physics can lead to significant modifications of general relativity. In five dimensions, the vacuum becomes non-standard, and the Weak Equivalence Principle becomes a geometrical symmetry which can be broken, perhaps at a level detectable by new tests in space.