Unfurling the string dimensions

In summary: Some possibilities for detecting these dimensions in particle accelerators have been proposed.In summary, according to string theory, there are 7 extra dimensions that are curled up and undetectable due to their small size. However, with certain models and research, it is possible for these dimensions to become larger and potentially detectable. The concept of moduli stabilization and potential ways to detect these dimensions have been explored.
  • #1
kuartus4
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According to string theory there are an extra 7 spatial dimensions curled up at every point in space. They are so small(Planck length) that nothing can move through them and are completely undetectable. My question is this:
Does string theory allow for these dimensions to uncurl and become large enough to detect directly? In other words, is it physically possible for these tiny dimensions to become bigger, as big as our normal three dimensions? And if they did, what would our world be like?
 
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  • #3
kuartus4 said:
According to string theory there are an extra 7 spatial dimensions curled up at every point in space. They are so small(Planck length) that nothing can move through them and are completely undetectable. My question is this:
Does string theory allow for these dimensions to uncurl and become large enough to detect directly? In other words, is it physically possible for these tiny dimensions to become bigger, as big as our normal three dimensions? And if they did, what would our world be like?
Sure. With the advent of the Randal-Sundrum models, theorists began considering large-ish (even infinite) extra dimensions with strongly warped geometries. The sizes of the extra dimensions in general are controlled by certain dynamical degrees of freedom in string theory. The fixing of the size of the dimensions -- known as moduli stabilization -- has been an active area of research.
 

1. What are string dimensions?

String dimensions refer to the number of dimensions in which a string theory exists. In traditional physics, there are three dimensions (length, width, and height), but in string theory, there are up to 26 dimensions, with the additional dimensions being too small to observe.

2. How does unfurling the string dimensions work?

Unfurling the string dimensions involves compactifying the extra dimensions in string theory to make them observable. This is done through a process called Calabi-Yau compactification, which involves curling up the extra dimensions into tiny shapes.

3. Why is it important to understand string dimensions?

Understanding string dimensions is crucial for developing a unified theory of physics that can explain all fundamental forces and particles. Additionally, it can help solve paradoxes in current physics theories, such as the incompatibility between general relativity and quantum mechanics.

4. How do string dimensions relate to the fabric of the universe?

In string theory, the fabric of the universe is thought to be made up of tiny strings vibrating in multiple dimensions. The number of dimensions in which these strings vibrate determines the properties of the particles and forces in our universe. Therefore, understanding string dimensions is essential in understanding the fabric of the universe.

5. Are there any experiments being conducted to test string dimensions?

Currently, there are no direct experiments to test string dimensions. However, scientists are working on developing high energy particle accelerators that may be able to detect evidence of extra dimensions. Additionally, observational evidence from cosmology and astrophysics can provide indirect evidence for the existence of extra dimensions.

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