Why strings?

[Poy]

I don't know to much about the string theory or loop theory really. I have read a few books on it, but I want to know: Why do scientists think any extra dimensions take the form of strings? Is it that the formula say that is what the strings are, or is it just a way to explain why we can't see the extra dimensions.
Thanks for any responses...

[Poy]

Sorry, posted in the wrong area, but if some one could still tell me that would be great..

[Ambitwistor]

Why do scientists think any extra dimensions take the form of strings?

Strings aren't dimensions. Strings move around within dimensions, just like anything else does.

Is it that the formula say that is what the strings are, or is it just a way to explain why we can't see the extra dimensions.

I'm not sure what you're asking. If you assume that the elementary constituents of matter are strings, then more than three space dimensions must exist in order for the quantum theory of strings to be self-consistent. Then people usually postulate that the extra dimensions are curled up small to explain why we can't see them.