Do dimensions apply in a universe without a center and shape?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of the first three dimensions in a universe devoid of a defined center and shape. Participants highlight that in environments like the International Space Station, individuals can orient themselves without a fixed "up" or "down," suggesting that dimensions are relative rather than absolute. The concept of multiple equivalent coordinate systems is introduced, emphasizing the importance of understanding these systems through the mathematical framework of SO(3) rotations and reflections. This perspective is crucial for comprehending the foundational principles of physics and cosmology.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic three-dimensional geometry
  • Familiarity with the concept of coordinate systems
  • Knowledge of rotational symmetry and group theory, specifically SO(3)
  • Basic principles of physics related to gravity and orientation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical properties of SO(3) and its applications in physics
  • Explore the implications of zero-gravity environments on human perception of dimensions
  • Study the principles of rotational symmetry in three-dimensional space
  • Investigate how different coordinate systems can be applied in cosmology
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physicists, mathematicians, and cosmologists interested in the nature of dimensions and their application in non-traditional environments, as well as anyone exploring the implications of gravity on spatial orientation.

Blossom Morphine
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How do the dimension, at least the first three we can observe, fit in the universe? We can monitor up/down, left/right, forward/backward on our planets, yes? But then how does this fit in with the idea that the universe has no center and shape, no true directions. Does this mean that the first three only pertain to planetary shapes, or is there something I am missing? Perhaps a great deal I am missing. Hopefully someone will be kind enough to answer and clear this up. :confused:



Thank you
Blossom Morphine
 
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Blossom Morphine said:
How do the dimension, at least the first three we can observe, fit in the universe? We can monitor up/down, left/right, forward/backward on our planets, yes? But then how does this fit in with the idea that the universe has no center and shape, no true directions. Does this mean that the first three only pertain to planetary shapes, or is there something I am missing? Perhaps a great deal I am missing. Hopefully someone will be kind enough to answer and clear this up. :confused:

Rather than stqar4t right away with the univesrse, let's just go out in a free falling environment like the space station or an orbiting shuttle. We are familiar from pictures that the people in these environments are as comfortable "upside down" as they are "rightside up". They have no definite pointers to indicate length, width, or up and down. They can be oriented any way according to the hardware around them, and define a coordinate system that works for them. This is the general rule wherever you don't have a detectible gravity direction to orient you.

So the general situation is that you don't have a single coordinate system of length, width, and height, but rather always a family of equivalent coordinate systems, any of which can be rotated into any of the others by a three dimensional rotation*; an "equivalence class under SO(3)", to use mathspeak.

All the physics theories and cosmology theories start from there.

* The question of left and right, and "handedness" is more subtle. The group SO(3) takes care of this by including reflections along with rotations.
 

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