Abstract
The validity of the equivalence principle is examined. Since classical physics is not valid for point particles, and a mass density over a finite volume tends to collapse, stabilizing forces are necessary. These cause a deviation from geodesic motion. That deviation is discussed in the light of recent results which provide approximate expressions for the self-force of a finite size particle due to both its mass and its charge. The equivalence principle appears to be violated.
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Rohrlich, F. The Equivalence Principle Revisited. Foundations of Physics 30, 621–630 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1003703825166
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1003703825166