Is tunnelling from nothing a transition?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of quantum tunneling from nothing as a possible explanation for the creation of a multiverse. However, it is also noted that the permanence of a pocket universe within the multiverse is threatened by a phase transition if its vacuum has any pairing of masses for the Higgs boson and top quark lower than a certain sequence. The question then arises whether a pocket universe with inadequate mass may face a lower risk of annihilation through quantum tunneling from nothing, or if it may simply blink off for a brief period. The discussion is based on the theory presented in the Physics Letters article by Alexander Vilenkin titled "Creation of Universe From Nothing."
  • #1
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Sorry for my abysmal level of ignorance, but I'm not understanding why quantum tunneling from nothing is considered a possible starting point for a multiverse, when the permanence of our pocket universe within the multiverse is also considered to be threatened by a phase transition if its vacuum has any pairing of masses for the Higgs boson and top quark lower than those in a certain sequence of pairs. Would a pocket universe whose Higgs and top-quark pair were at any mass be threatened with a (possibly lower) risk of annihilation by quantum tunneling from nothing, or might it just blink off for an interval (perhaps imperceptibly short) if their masses were consequently left inadequate for stability?
 
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Zz.
 

1. What is tunnelling from nothing?

Tunnelling from nothing refers to the concept in quantum physics where a particle can seemingly appear or disappear from 'nothing', or a region of space with no detectable energy. This phenomenon is known as quantum tunnelling.

2. Is tunnelling from nothing a real phenomenon?

Yes, quantum tunnelling has been experimentally observed and is a well-established phenomenon in quantum mechanics. It has been observed in various physical systems, including electrons, atoms, and even entire molecules.

3. How does tunnelling from nothing occur?

Quantum tunnelling occurs when a particle has a non-zero probability of crossing an energy barrier, even though it does not have enough energy to overcome the barrier. This is possible due to the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics, where particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously.

4. Can tunnelling from nothing violate the laws of physics?

No, quantum tunnelling does not violate any laws of physics. It is a natural phenomenon that can be explained by the principles of quantum mechanics. However, it may seem counterintuitive to our classical understanding of the world.

5. What are the practical applications of tunnelling from nothing?

Quantum tunnelling has several important applications in various fields, including electronics, nanotechnology, and nuclear physics. For example, it is used in transistors, scanning tunneling microscopes, and nuclear fusion reactions.

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