Constraining Torsion with Gravity Probe B

TL;DR

This paper challenges the assumption that torsion effects are negligible in the solar system by proposing a framework to test torsion using gyroscopic precession measurements, especially from Gravity Probe B.

Contribution

It introduces a parametrized formalism for torsion around rotating masses and demonstrates how GPB can constrain torsion theories beyond previous assumptions.

Findings

Classic solar system tests rule out Hayashi-Shirafuji torsion gravity.

Gravity Probe B can further constrain torsion parameters.

A new framework generalizes PPN formalism to include torsion effects.

Abstract

It is well-entrenched folklore that torsion gravity theories predict observationally negligible torsion in the solar system, since torsion (if it exists) couples only to the intrinsic spin of elementary particles, not to rotational angular momentum. We argue that this assumption has a logical loophole which can and should be tested experimentally. In the spirit of action=reaction, if a rotating mass like a planet can generate torsion, then a gyroscope should also feel torsion. Using symmetry arguments, we show that to lowest order, the torsion field around a uniformly rotating spherical mass is determined by seven dimensionless parameters. These parameters effectively generalize the PPN formalism and provide a concrete framework for further testing GR. We construct a parametrized Lagrangian that includes both standard torsion-free GR and Hayashi- Shirafuji maximal torsion gravity as special cases. We demonstrate that classic solar system tests rule out the latter and constrain two observable parameters. We show that Gravity Probe B (GPB) is an ideal experiment for further constraining torsion theories, and work out the most general torsion-induced precession of its gyroscope in terms of our torsion parameters