Contribution to Inertial Mass by Reaction of the Vacuum to Accelerated Motion

摘要: We present an approach to understanding the origin of inertia involving electromagnetic component quantum vacuum and propose this as a step toward alternative Mach's principle. Preliminary analysis momentum flux classical zero-point radiation impinging on accelerated objects viewed by inertial observer suggests that resistance acceleration attributed may be at least in part force opposition originating vacuum. This avoids ad hoc modeling particle-field interaction dynamics used previously Haisch, Rueda, Puthoff (Phys. Rev. A 49, 678, (1994)) derive similar result. is not dependent upon what happens particle point, but how external assesses kinematical characteristics object. relativistic form equation motion results from analysis. Its manifestly covariant yields simple result interpreted contribution mass. note our related principle equivalence Sakharov's conjecture (Sov. Phys. Dokl. 12, 1040, (1968)) connection between Einstein action The argument presented thus construed descendant which we attempt attribute mass-giving property component—and possibly other components—of In view physical object radiative instantaneously contained characteristic proper volume process (akin absorption or scattering radiation) appears generate (reaction force) suggestive has been historically known inertia.