Physicist Explains Dimensions in 5 Levels of Difficulty | WIRED
WIRED・28 minutes read
Sean Carroll explains dimensions as directions used by physicists and mathematicians, not mystical places, discussing extra dimensions beyond the three we perceive and the concept of space-time. Physicists explore string theory to unify quantum mechanics and gravity, requiring 10 dimensions and aiming to encompass all forces, including compactifying extra dimensions and exploring black brains in cosmological scenarios.
Insights
- Dimensions are not mystical realms but represent directions like up, down, left, right, forward, and backward, crucial for physicists and mathematicians to navigate space.
- Space-time, a four-dimensional concept combining three spatial dimensions and one time dimension, plays a pivotal role in Einstein's theory of relativity, linking gravity to the curvature of space-time and affecting the paths objects take.
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Recent questions
What are dimensions according to physicists?
Physicists view dimensions as directions to move in, such as up, down, left, right, forward, and backward. They are not mystical places but practical ways to navigate space.
How many dimensions does three-dimensional space involve?
Three-dimensional space involves three directions to move in, allowing for movement in three perpendicular directions.
What is space-time in physics?
Space-time is a four-dimensional concept that combines three spatial dimensions with one time dimension. It is a fundamental framework in understanding the universe.
What is the aim of string theory?
String theory aims to unify quantum mechanics and gravity by proposing the existence of 10 dimensions. It views particles as vibrating strings and seeks to encompass all fundamental forces.
How do physicists explore extra dimensions?
Physicists explore the possibility of extra dimensions, some potentially smaller than atoms, by discussing concepts like compactifying extra dimensions and exploring black brains in cosmological scenarios.
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Summary
00:00
Understanding Dimensions: Directions in Physics and Math
- Sean Carroll, a theoretical physicist at Caltech, explains dimensions as directions to physicists and mathematicians.
- Dimensions are not mystical places but ways to move like up, down, left, right, forward, and backward.
- Physicists discuss extra dimensions beyond the three we perceive.
- One-dimensional objects like lines need one number to locate a point, while two-dimensional planes require two numbers.
- Three-dimensional space involves three directions to move in.
- Polar coordinates offer an alternative to XYZ coordinates for locating points.
- Physicists explore the possibility of extra dimensions, some potentially smaller than atoms.
- Space-time is a four-dimensional concept, combining three spatial dimensions and one time dimension.
- Einstein's theory of relativity links gravity to the curvature of space-time.
- Gravity warps space-time, affecting the paths objects take, akin to a sheet curving under a weight.
14:29
"Exploring Perspectives in Physics and Cosmology"
- The Train paradox involves differing perspectives on acceleration based on frames of reference.
- Relativity is about perspective and how individuals on a train and outside it perceive acceleration.
- Observational cosmology involves creating vast universe maps to study dark energy.
- Theoretical physicists explore concepts like extra dimensions and bubble universes.
- Different universes may have varying dimensions and laws of physics.
- String theory aims to unify quantum mechanics and gravity, requiring 10 dimensions.
- Extra dimensions might be hidden or large, impacting our perception of space.
- String theory views particles as vibrating strings, unifying forces like gravity.
- String theory aims to be a grand unified theory, encompassing all forces.
- Theoretical discussions involve compactifying extra dimensions and exploring black brains in cosmological scenarios.
28:17
"Exploring Sleep at Five Levels"
- The text discusses the topic of sleep at five different levels.
