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The fundamental constants and their variation: observational and theoretical status

Open access
Uzan, Jean-Philippe·2003·Reviews of Modern Physics

Abstract

This article describes the various experimental bounds on the variation of the fundamental constants of nature. After a discussion of the role of fundamental constants, their definition and link with metrology, it reviews the various constraints on the variation of the fine-structure constant, the gravitational, weak- and strong-interaction couplings and the electron-to-proton mass ratio. The review aims (1) to provide the basics of each measurement, (2) to show as clearly as possible why it constrains a given constant, and (3) to point out the underlying hypotheses. Such an investigation is of importance in comparing the different results and in understanding the recent claims of the detection of a variation of the fine-structure constant and of the electron-to-proton mass ratio in quasar absorption spectra. The theoretical models leading to the prediction of such variation are also reviewed, including Kaluza-Klein theories, string theories, and other alternative theories. Cosmological implications of these results are also discussed. The links with the tests of general relativity are emphasized.

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Metadata

Authors
Uzan, J.-P.
Venue
Reviews of Modern Physics
Published
2003-04-07
Volume
75
Issue
2
Pages
403-455
ISSN
  • 0034-6861 (ISSN-L)
  • 1539-0756
OpenAlex
W1532239545
Cited by
1,162
References
38
FWCI
42.33
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
green

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Uzan, J.-P. (2003). The fundamental constants and their variation: observational and theoretical status. Reviews of Modern Physics. https://doi.org/10.1103/revmodphys.75.403

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