String theory verses Special Relativity

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the relationship and potential conflict between string theory and Einstein's theory of special relativity. Participants explore the implications of string theory on concepts of mass and energy, as well as the compatibility of the two theories.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that if string theory is correct, it implies that Einstein's theory must be incorrect, particularly regarding the nature of mass and energy as objects approach the speed of light.
  • Another participant humorously references contacting a prominent figure in string theory, indicating a light-hearted approach to the discussion.
  • A third participant emphasizes that the relationship between energy and mass is a fundamental aspect of relativity, questioning the implications of mass becoming energy as it approaches light speed.
  • One participant asserts that string theory is fundamentally based on the principles of relativity, suggesting that the two theories should be compatible.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of string theory for special relativity, with no consensus reached on whether the theories can coexist or if one must be incorrect.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the definitions of mass and energy in the context of both theories, as well as the implications of approaching the speed of light.

Dlockwood
Messages
34
Reaction score
0
Do any of the string theorists realize that if their theories are correct Einstein's theory has to be wrong? The minute you conclude that the smallest particles are "strings of light" you have to also conclude that everything tangible is energy 'en masse', therefore matter has to be energy below the velocity of light. That also means that as a mass approaches the velocity of light it becomes energy, not infinite mass. I would appreciate comments and views.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Mon Dieu! Je téléphonerai à Ed Witten tout de suite!
 
The relationship between energy and mass is part of the theory of relativity.

[/quote]That also means that as a mass approaches the velocity of light it becomes energy, not infinite mass. [/quote]

Could you explain what you mean. Things with mass never achieve the speed of light, and the mass is always finite.
 
String theory is, by conception, based[/color] on relativity. Don't worry, they still know that they are trying to use it, and that both theories should be compatible.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
  • · Replies 61 ·
3
Replies
61
Views
6K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 75 ·
3
Replies
75
Views
8K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
631
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K