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Constraints on the Value of the Fine Structure Constant from Gravitational Thermodynamics

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Abstract

In this paper I show how the second law of thermodynamics, generalized to include event horizon area, places interesting constraints on the value of the fine structure constant α. A simple analysis leads to the approximate constraint α<1, although I suggest ways in which this bound might be reduced by a more detailed calculation. The analysis also leads to the conclusion that the existence of classical Dirac and point-like magnetic monopoles are inconsistent with the second law, and that GUT monopoles are inconsistent with either the second law or the existence of minicharged particles.

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  1. The Beyond Center, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA

    P. C. W. Davies

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  1. P. C. W. Davies
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Correspondence to P. C. W. Davies.

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Davies, P.C.W. Constraints on the Value of the Fine Structure Constant from Gravitational Thermodynamics. Int J Theor Phys 47, 1949–1953 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10773-007-9638-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10773-007-9638-1

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