Smallest length and time

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of quantization in physics, specifically in regards to length, time, mass, and energy. It is noted that some theories suggest the quantization of space and time as a way to unify gravity with other forces. There is also mention of photons being quantized. The conversation also touches on the idea of a "preferred position" in physics and the limitations of current theories in making testable predictions. The suggestion to look up Planck length and Planck time is given as further information on the topic.
  • #1
Jarwulf
31
0
Are length and time quantized? Is future theory expected to show that they are? Is this quantization real or simply due to the fact that there is no way to measure beyond certain scales?

Are mass and energy quantized in all cases?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Jarwulf said:
Are length and time quantized? Is future theory expected to show that they are? Is this quantization real or simply due to the fact that there is no way to measure beyond certain scales?

Are mass and energy quantized in all cases?

First question - it is an open question. Some theories unifying gravity with the other forces include space and time quantization.

Second question - what do you have in mind "all cases"? Photons are quantized.
 
  • #3
mathman said:
First question - it is an open question. Some theories unifying gravity with the other forces include space and time quantization.

So its by not the preferred position?
 
  • #4
Jarwulf said:
So its by not the preferred position?

Physics is not a matter of "preferred position". The theories involved have not reached the point where predictions can be made that can be tested by observations.
 
  • #5
look up Planck length and Planck time.
 

What is the smallest unit of length?

The smallest unit of length in the International System of Units (SI) is the Planck length, which is approximately 1.616199 × 10^-35 meters. It is considered the smallest length that can have any physical meaning.

What is the smallest unit of time?

The smallest unit of time in the International System of Units (SI) is the Planck time, which is approximately 5.39116 × 10^-44 seconds. It is considered the shortest possible unit of time that has any physical significance.

How do scientists measure the smallest length and time?

Scientists use high-energy particle accelerators and other advanced technologies to study the smallest length and time scales. They also use mathematical models and theories, such as quantum mechanics and general relativity, to understand these concepts.

Why is it important for scientists to study the smallest length and time?

Studying the smallest length and time scales allows scientists to better understand the fundamental building blocks of the universe and the laws that govern it. It also helps to advance our understanding of physics and can lead to new technologies and innovations.

Can the smallest length and time be divided infinitely?

According to current scientific theories, such as quantum mechanics, there is a limit to how small a length or time can be. However, some theories suggest that at the Planck scale, the smallest length and time may be infinitely divisible. This is still an area of ongoing research and debate among scientists.

Similar threads

Replies
8
Views
379
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
40
Views
5K
  • Other Physics Topics
2
Replies
57
Views
5K
  • Other Physics Topics
Replies
14
Views
3K
  • Other Physics Topics
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
12
Views
878
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Other Physics Topics
Replies
27
Views
1K
  • Other Physics Topics
Replies
9
Views
2K
Back
Top