Explore the Kaluza-Klein Model: Advantages & Drawbacks

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In summary, the article discusses the Kaluza-Klein theory and its promise in reproducing the action of the gravitational and electrodynamic fields. However, the theory was discarded due to the concept of an unobserved dimension. While string theory offers a possible solution to this issue, the original Kaluza-Klein theory was not a quantum theory and could not account for the predictions of quantum electrodynamics.
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paweld
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I wonder why Klauza-Klein theory was discarded. According to the article:
"www.weylmann.com/kaluza.pdf"[/URL]
this model reproduces almost exactly the action of gravitation field coupled
to the electrodynamic field. What are the drawbacks of this theory?
At first sight it looks very promising.
 
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Well there is the whole unobserved dimension thing... :rolleyes:
 
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Sure, but if the equations are correct ...
 
  • #4
Nabeshin said:
Well there is the whole unobserved dimension thing... :rolleyes:
That's hardly a conflict with observation, since the Kaluza-Klein theory predicts that one dimension is "compact" (rolled up like the second dimension of the surface of a hose) just like in string theory. I suppose string theory brings up one possible answer to the OP's question--the original Kaluza-Klein theory was not a quantum theory, and so it presumably couldn't reproduce the experimentally-verified predictions of quantum electrodynamics (which differ in some cases from those of classical electromagnetism).

Here's a review paper on Kaluza-Klein theory and later quantum generalizations of the idea:

http://arxiv.org/abs/grqc/9805018
 

What is the Kaluza-Klein model?

The Kaluza-Klein model is a theory proposed by Theodor Kaluza and Oskar Klein in the 1920s that attempts to unify the fundamental forces of nature by adding an extra dimension to the existing four-dimensional space-time. It suggests that the universe may have more than the four observable dimensions, with the extra dimensions being compactified or "curled up" at a very small scale.

What are the advantages of the Kaluza-Klein model?

One of the main advantages of the Kaluza-Klein model is that it offers a possible solution to the problem of unifying gravity with the other fundamental forces. It also provides a geometrical interpretation of the fundamental forces, with gravity being described as the curvature of the extra dimension. Additionally, the model can explain the existence of charges and the quantization of electric charge.

What are the drawbacks of the Kaluza-Klein model?

Despite its potential, the Kaluza-Klein model has several drawbacks. One major drawback is that it has not been experimentally confirmed, and there is currently no evidence for the existence of extra dimensions. The model also requires the existence of an unknown mechanism for compactifying the extra dimensions, and it has difficulty predicting the masses of fundamental particles.

How does the Kaluza-Klein model relate to string theory?

The Kaluza-Klein model is closely related to string theory, as it was originally developed as a precursor to string theory. In fact, string theory can be seen as a more advanced version of the Kaluza-Klein model, incorporating not only extra dimensions but also vibrating strings as the fundamental building blocks of the universe.

What current research is being done on the Kaluza-Klein model?

Current research on the Kaluza-Klein model involves exploring its implications for particle physics and cosmology. Scientists are also looking for ways to test the model experimentally, such as through high-energy particle collisions and gravitational wave detections. Additionally, researchers are investigating extensions of the model, such as extra dimensions beyond the traditional fifth dimension proposed by Kaluza-Klein.

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