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Question #79333

Difficulty: 8/10 | 🟢 Free

The Question

In a theoretical model of quantum gravity, the vacuum acts as a non-linear dispersive medium. The dispersion relation ω(k)\omega(k) for a wave satisfies the differential equation: kdωdk−ω=hGc2k3k \frac{d\omega}{dk} - \omega = \frac{h G}{c^2} k^3 where hh is Planck's constant, GG is the gravitational constant, and cc is the speed of light. In the linear limit (k→0k \to 0), the phase velocity approaches cc. The energy density of these waves is given by u=c4Gk2u = \frac{c^4}{G} k^2. The energy-density flux is defined as ΦE=uvg\Phi_E = u v_g, where vgv_g is the group velocity. Let Φ0=c8hG2\Phi_0 = \frac{c^8}{h G^2} be the fundamental unit of energy-density flux, and k~=klp\tilde{k} = k l_p be the dimensionless wave number, where lp=hGc3l_p = \sqrt{\frac{h G}{c^3}} is the Planck length. Which of the following represents the total energy-density flux ΦE\Phi_E in terms of Φ0\Phi_0 and k~\tilde{k}?

Options

  • A.

    Φ0(k~2+32k~4)\Phi_0 \left( \tilde{k}^2 + \frac{3}{2} \tilde{k}^4 \right)

  • B.

    Φ0(k~2+12k~4)\Phi_0 \left( \tilde{k}^2 + \frac{1}{2} \tilde{k}^4 \right)

  • C.

    Φ0(k~2+k~4)\Phi_0 \left( \tilde{k}^2 + \tilde{k}^4 \right)

  • D.

    Φ0(12k~2+34k~4)\Phi_0 \left( \frac{1}{2} \tilde{k}^2 + \frac{3}{4} \tilde{k}^4 \right)

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Correct Answer

Step-by-Step Solution

Explanation

How the Examiner Thinks

Variable_Constraint

Develop pure symbolic logic skills by mastering algebraic constraints without relying on numerical data.

Concepts Behind This Question

Derived Units via Fundamental Constants|Energy Density in Transverse Waves|Vector Cross-Products

Why This Question Is Tricky

Examiner Levers

Boundary Condition

Tests behavior at limits like 0, 1, infinity, or empty sets.

Difficulty Boost : +4

Variable Manipulation

Algebraic solutions only (No numbers); tests pure symbolic logic.

Difficulty Boost : +4

Common Mistakes

This question tests the student's ability to distinguish between phase velocity and group velocity in a non-linear dispersive medium, while simultaneously manipulating derived units using fundamental constants.

The primary trap (Option B) exploits a common misconception where students incorrectly apply the energy flux formula by using the phase velocity (vp=ω/kv_p = \omega/k) instead of the group velocity (vg=dω/dkv_g = d\omega/dk).

If a student integrates the ODE to find ω/k\omega/k and directly multiplies it by the energy density, they will miss the factor of 3 that arises from the derivative in the group velocity, leading them straight to the trap.

Quick Facts About This Question

Question Information

SubjectPhysics
ChapterUnits and Measurements - Class 11 Part 1
ConceptDerived Units via Fundamental Constants
Difficulty8
Cognitive Load8
Target Solve Time180 sec
AccessFree