Abstract:
The question of the minimal size of particles in general relativity is considered. It is shown
that a neutral particle's mass vanishes when its size tends to zero. But a point limit is impossible
for an electrically charged particle. The minimal size of a particle allowed by its
charge is discussed, and it is shown that a point limit is impossible in Papapetrou's model.
In Euclidean space, the introduction of an extension of particles violates causality; it is shown
that the extension that arises in general relativity does not. Another question discussed is
this: is the total (inert) mass's being equal to the gravitating mass a condition under which the
gravitational interaction has a regularizing effect?