LAUSR

We propose an approximate theory describing electromagnetism and gravity as a single direct particle interaction. A new element in this theory is the assumption on real simultaneous (combined) existence of retarded and advanced interactions. Another essential principle of this theory is Mach’s principle, according to which the interaction of particles in a certain local region is inextricably connected with the dynamics of all particles in the Universe. A consequence ofMach’s principle in this theory is that in terrestrial experiments the advanced electromagnetic interaction is many orders of magnitude smaller than the retarded one (but is not precisely zero). We consider a possible mechanism of emergence of particle masses due to electromagnetic interaction. The proposed theory is relativistic but non-quantum. In this regard, we consider only three types of particles (electrons, protons, and neutrons), and the difference of particle masses is explained only at a qualitative level. The resulting equation of motion for particles is studied in the nonrelativistic approximation. Along with the Lorentz force and the radiative friction force, it contains terms describing the gravitational interaction. Their form is similar to those known in gravielectromagnetism, which is an approximation to general relativity.